Thanksgiving Episode
with Guest DJ, Charity Kahn

This special Thanksgiving episode from Charity and the JAMband explores, through music and story, some of the many, many things we have to be grateful for in our lives — like the sun, rain, friends and family – – culminating in a vision for world peace where everyone finally has enough food, shelter, community and love. Incorporating songs by Snatam Kaur, Los Lobos, the Moody Blues, the Rolling Stones, and Nat King Cole, among others, the music and commentary weave a gentle yet thought-provoking meditation on gratitude, generosity, love and compassion to inspire folks of all ages this holiday season.

Featured video: Charity has a great song, “Loving Kindness.” She writes, “Love shouldn’t cost anything. This song emanated from the Buddhist practice of Loving Kindness (also called Metta), whereby you send wishes of health, happiness, safety and peace of mind to yourself and others.” In this video she shows you the movements to the song so you can show your preK kids how to dance along! – www.jamjamjam.com

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

Ashfield Fall Festival is every Columbus Day weekend! A great small town festival to attend with your family, taking in Hilltown culture on the town common in Ashfield, MA. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BULLETIN BOARD

Oct 12

Do you love Llamas? Have you read Llama Llama Red Pajama? Would you like to meet the author? Anna Dewdney, author of the New York Times bestselling Llama Llama series reads from her newest tale, Llama, Llama and The Bully Goat on Saturday, October 12th at 4pm. This time Llama Llama is learning lots of new things at school and making many friends. But when Gilroy Goat starts teasing him and some of their classmates, Llama Llama isn’t sure what to do. Enjoy a storytime-read aloud from the author herself after which she will sign books. The fun won’t end there! Activities, sweet treats and a REAL LLAMA will be present! Odyssey Bookshop, 9 College Street, SouthHadley, MA, 01075. 413-534-7307 www.odysseybks.com

Oct 14, 20 & 27

October at Hayloft Studio in Whatley, MA.–Monday, 10/14 or Sunday, 10/27: Extreme Pumpkin Carving-Create a wicked scene upon your pumpkins. Learn basic carving and safety skills, as well as design and illuminating effects. Bring your own pumpkins. All ages. Children under 8 with adult. Sunday, 10/20: Day of the Dead Workshop-Learn Mexican Day of the Dead traditions while decorating sugar skulls & making Catrina dolls. Sugar skulls are decorated in memory of departed loved ones using icing, beads, feathers, etc. Catrina dolls are an icon of the joyful memories of the dead in Mexican traditions. Make Catrina dolls by recycling white plastic bags. All ages. All workshops are from 10am-2pm & $20. Go to www.darcytozier.com or email darcytozier@gmail.com

Oct 18-19, 24-26

The Doll People is a brand new children’s musical adapted for the stage by Jahnna Beecham and Malcolm Hillgartner. Based on the beloved series by Ann M. Martin and Laura Godwin, it will receive its world premiere in Theatre 14 at Smith College in Northampton, MA, on October 18 at 8PM, and will continue to show at 8PM on October 19, 24, and 25. There will also be a matinee performance on Saturday, October 26, at 2PM. Tickets can be purchased over the phone at 413-585-ARTS (2787) or online at www.smith.edu/smitharts. The Box Ofﬁce window is open October 14 to October 18 from 1-4 PM, October 21 to 25 from 1-4 PM, and one hour before all posted show times. Call to inquire about a group rate for schools, libraries, and community centers.

Deadline Oct 18

The Ashfield Local Goods Fundraiser to benefit Sanderson Academy is here! This is the perfect opportunity to purchase locally made gifts for the holidays while supporting education. Find unique, creative and practical items from Hilltown vendors such as handmade jewelry, pottery, books by local authors, maple syrup, gift certificates for restaurants and more! Go to www.ashfieldlocalgoods.com to view the catalog and download an order form. Deadline for orders is October 18th and needs to be returned to Sanderson Academy. Items will be ready for pick up at the Free Ice Cream Social and Distribution Event on November 16th between 9:30am and Noon at Sanderson Academy, located at 808 Cape Street in Ashfield. Call 413-628-4404 with questions.

The Academy at Charlemont hosts an Open House for prospective students and families, October 20 from 1 to 3 PM on the campus at 1359 Route 2 in Charlemont. Meet teachers, students and current parents to learn about our community and program for Grades 7 to 12. At The Academy, everyone learns, everyone plays, and everyone matters. Rigorous and creative education in a nurturing community, governed by an Honor Code that works! Find details and register at www.charlemont.org.

Oct 24

Mammography is the best way to find breast cancer in its earliest stages when a cure is most likely and the treatment choices are greater. Breast cancer is the second most prevalent form of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related death (after lung cancer) among American women. Breast tomosynthesis has revolutionized breast cancer screening. In Breast Tomosynthesis: What, Why and How, Mansi Saksena, MD, discusses the technique, effectiveness, and applications of breast tomosynthesis. Attend a free lecture, Thursday, Oct. 24, 6–7 pm at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. Registration is required at www.cooley-dickinson.org/classes or (888) 554-4CDH (234).

Dec 6-8

The LEGO® KidsFest is a giant traveling LEGO expo coming to Hartford, CT at the Connecticut Convention Center from December 6-8. This hands-on, educational, all-ages LEGO extravaganza features millions of LEGO bricks, not to mention lots of construction zones, dozens of life-sized LEGO models and displays, LEGO Friends and LEGO Games, group builds such as Creation Nation, live LEGO Master Builders, and so much more covering three acres of space. There are five identical sessions available. Tickets are $18 for kids and $20 for adults. For more information and to purchase tickets, log on to www.LEGOKidsFest.com.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your afterschool class, community event, open house, auditions,homeschool program, community event,workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

Hilltown Families is hosting another Kids’ Winter Wear Swap at the Meekins Library on Saturday morning, October 26th from 9:30-11am. Free and open to all families with children of all ages!

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

Fall festivals are in full swing, including the Conway Festival of the Hills taking place this Sunday, October 6th. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BULLETIN BOARD

Oct 5, Nov 2 & Dec 14

Chandler’s Restaurant Kid’s Cooking Class is an opportunity for parents and their children to explore the craft of cooking in a no pressure setting utilizing ingredients and utensils safe and accessible to kids. Classes will be structured so as to provide ample opportunities for children to be involved in most of the preparation. The classes are held at 10:30am with lunch to follow. October 5th will be a cider making demonstration, November 2nd is lasagna and on December 14th the kids will be making gingerbread houses! $25 per child includes instruction, lunch, and complimentary lunch for one accompanying parent. Space is limited; call 413-665-1277 for reservations. For more information visit chandlers.yankeecandle.com. South Deerfield, MA.

Oct 6

Visit the Springfield Museums on Sunday, October 6 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. for their “Family Fiesta,” featuring the musical group Surcari and an appearance by “everyone’s favorite girl explorer.” Visitors can also enjoy the new exhibit, Fiesta: Flora and Fauna from Puerto Rico, and a variety of hands-on activities. Admission to all four Springfield Museums and the Dr. Seuss Sculpture Garden is $15 adults, $10 seniors/college students, $8 children 3-17, and free for children under three and museum members. General admission is free for Springfield residents with proof of address. For information, call 413-263-6800 or visit www.springfieldmuseums.org. Sponsored by Baystate Health with funding from the TD Charitable Foundation.

Oct 6

Conway Festival of the Hills – Sunday, October 6th. One of the best fall festivals around! Like their page on Facebook. The Festival has something for everyone – Covered Bridge Classic Road Race, kids activities (hill slide, hay maze, petting zoo, pony rides, and more), food (ice cream, baked goodies, fresh cider, and more), craft fair with many vendors, art exhibit and book sale, author signing with numerous local authors, live bands and music all day, Festival Parade at 1 p.m., Conway Historical Society open house, and the heralded Log Splitting and Skillet Toss competitions. 10am – 4pm. Free. Center of Conway, MA.

Deadline Oct 18

The Ashfield Local Goods Fundraiser to benefit Sanderson Academy is here! This is the perfect opportunity to purchase locally made gifts for the holidays while supporting education. Find unique, creative and practical items from Hilltown vendors such as handmade jewelry, pottery, books by local authors, maple syrup, gift certificates for restaurants and more! Go to www.ashfieldlocalgoods.com to view the catalog and download an order form. Deadline for orders is October 18th and needs to be returned to Sanderson Academy. Items will be ready for pick up at the Free Ice Cream Social and Distribution Event on November 16th between 9:30am and Noon at Sanderson Academy, located at 808 Cape Street in Ashfield. Call 413-628-4404 with questions.

Add some STEAM to your child’s education in science and art! Kathryn Roszko, a functional stoneware potter of CyclePottery in Hatfield, is offering basic wheel throwing techniques for all ages. Adults & children can learn a new art skill, pottery, while mastering the physics of wheel throwing techniques. Parent/Child, girls’ night out, workshop with a friend, homeschool classes… there are all options, it’s up to you! Only four wheels, individualized attention, and great introductory rates for customized one day workshops, mini-sessions and more! Make your own bowls and mugs together or individually. More info at www.CyclePottery.com; kathryn@cyclepottery.com; 413-219-9594

Oct 12

Do you love Llamas? Have you read Llama Llama Red Pajama? Would you like to meet the author? Anna Dewdney, author of the New York Times bestselling Llama Llama series reads from her newest tale, Llama, Llama and The Bully Goat on Saturday, October 12th at 4pm. This time Llama Llama is learning lots of new things at school and making many friends. But when Gilroy Goat starts teasing him and some of their classmates, Llama Llama isn’t sure what to do. Enjoy a storytime-read aloud from the author herself after which she will sign books. The fun won’t end there! Activities, sweet treats and a REAL LLAMA will be present! Odyssey Bookshop, 9 College Street, South Hadley, MA, 01075. 413-534-7307 www.odysseybks.com

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your afterschool class, community event, open house, auditions,homeschool program, community event,workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

Life is Like a Rotary

Last month my column post The Co-Parenting Dance was part one of an experiment I decided to embark on with my partner, the love of my life for the last (gulp!) 14 years. To catch you up, my partner and I are both equally involved, strong-minded women and parents which often brings complication along with it’s joys. At the time I wrote my last post I was having a particularly challenging time. All our decisions around parenting were feeling like constant negotiation and I was tiring from the dynamic…

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BULLETIN BOARD

Oct 5, Nov 2 & Dec 14

Chandler’s Restaurant Kid’s Cooking Class is an opportunity for parents and their children to explore the craft of cooking in a no pressure setting utilizing ingredients and utensils safe and accessible to kids. Classes will be structured so as to provide ample opportunities for children to be involved in most of the preparation. The classes are held at 10:30am with lunch to follow. October 5th will be a cider making demonstration, November 2nd is lasagna and on December 14th the kids will be making gingerbread houses! $25 per child includes instruction, lunch, and complimentary lunch for one accompanying parent. Space is limited; call 413-665-1277 for reservations. For more information visit chandlers.yankeecandle.com. South Deerfield, MA.

Oct 6

Visit the Springfield Museums on Sunday, October 6 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. for their “Family Fiesta,” featuring the musical group Surcari and an appearance by “everyone’s favorite girl explorer.” Visitors can also enjoy the new exhibit, Fiesta: Flora and Fauna from Puerto Rico, and a variety of hands-on activities. Admission to all four Springfield Museums and the Dr. Seuss Sculpture Garden is $15 adults, $10 seniors/college students, $8 children 3-17, and free for children under three and museum members. General admission is free for Springfield residents with proof of address. For information, call 413-263-6800 or visit www.springfieldmuseums.org. Sponsored by Baystate Health with funding from the TD Charitable Foundation.

Add some STEAM to your child’s education in science and art! Kathryn Roszko, a functional stoneware potter of CyclePottery in Hatfield, is offering basic wheel throwing techniques for all ages. Adults & children can learn a new art skill, pottery, while mastering the physics of wheel throwing techniques. Parent/Child, girls’ night out, workshop with a friend, homeschool classes… there are all options, it’s up to you! Only four wheels, individualized attention, and great introductory rates for customized one day workshops, mini-sessions and more! Make your own bowls and mugs together or individually. More info at www.CyclePottery.com; kathryn@cyclepottery.com; 413-219-9594

Dec 6-8

The LEGO® KidsFest is a giant traveling LEGO expo coming to Hartford, CT at the Connecticut Convention Center from December 6-8. This hands-on, educational, all-ages LEGO extravaganza features millions of LEGO bricks, not to mention lots of construction zones, dozens of life-sized LEGO models and displays, LEGO Friends and LEGO Games, group builds such as Creation Nation, live LEGO Master Builders, and so much more covering three acres of space. There are five identical sessions available. Tickets are $18 for kids and $20 for adults. For more information and to purchase tickets, log on to www.LEGOKidsFest.com.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your afterschool class, community event, open house, auditions,homeschool program, community event,workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

On Sunday, September 29th from 1pm-4pm, the Hilltown Village will offer a free volunteer training at the Village Congregational Church, 32 Main St. in Cummington. Hilltown Village prepares volunteers to provide weekly home visits during the first 3 months after a baby is born. A family is matched with a volunteer who visits the family home on a weekly basis. Home visits may include preparing meals, washing dishes, providing companionship, playing with older children, and helping in other ways that a good neighbor or extended family might. Train to be a volunteer. For more info contact Anna Westley, Family & Volunteer Coordinator, at 413-625-6948 or Anna@MotherwellDoulaCare.com. www.itavillage.info.

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

Discover the wonderful world of honey and honey bees at Warm Colors Apiary’s annual Honey Festival this Saturday in South Deerfield, MA!

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BULLETIN BOARD

Sep 21

Eric Carle Book Signing! Join The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art this Saturday, Sept 21st at 10am (Members: 9am) in Amherst as it welcomes back their co-founder Eric Carle. Be the first to get his new book, Friends, at a special pre-launch book signing for his fans in the Pioneer Valley! Come buy a copy, meet Eric Carle in person & get your book signed while viewing his original artwork in the new exhibition: The Art of Eric Carle: Friends. Create tissue paper art & see a great film all about Eric’s life as an artist too. There will also be face painting, storytimes & art studio activities. Free with museum admission (Book signing is not limited to Friends books.) Visit www.carlemuseum.org for signing guidelines or call 413-658-1126.

Sep 22

SUKKOT HARVEST FESTIVAL!Sunday, 9/22, 1-4pm at Abundance Farm, 253 Prospect St. in Northampton. In celebration of the harvest, Congregation B’nai Israel and Lander Grinspoon Academy are holding a Sukkot Harvest Festival for all ages, open to the public. The Festival will launch “Abundance Farm,” a burgeoning small-scale farm and outdoor classroom. Will include apple cider pressing, wheat threshing and winnowing, cob oven baking, honey extraction, garlic planting, a fermentation workshop and crafts for toddlers. Also live music, animals and healthy snacks. Suggested donation of $5. Move inside in case of rain. For more information please contact Rabbi Jacob Fine at rabbijacob@cbinorthampton.org or 413-584-3593 x203. Find on Facebook here.

Sep 27

Do you love Percy Jackson, Spiderwick or the Amulet series? Visit the Odyssey Bookshop for an evening with two highly acclaimed middle grade authors for a ‘lost things’ scavenger hunt and all the pizza you can eat! Graphic novelist Greg Ruth, illustrator of Our Enduring Spirit, written by Barack Obama, will be presenting his debut graphic novel, The Lost Boy, which explores the mystery in a magical world when a boy discovers the tape recordings of a missing boy under his floorboards. Matthew Kirby, winner of the 2012 Edgar award will be reading from his new book The Lost Kingdom, a wild adventure set in the vast American wilderness. For Ages 7-14. Friday, September 27, 6pm. Odyssey Bookshop, 9 College Street, South Hadley. www.odysseybks.com

Goodchild Music – Music for Life! Barbara Goodchild, a certified Simply Music Teacher, offers the following classes in Shelburne, MA. Simply Music Piano (7 yrs & up): a remarkable, Australian-developed piano program that has beginning students, playing pop, classical, blues and accompaniment pieces – from their first lessons! Play-a-Story (5-7 yrs): an improvisational introduction to piano while making music for stories. Simply Music Rhapsody (3 mos.-5 yrs): an exciting and experiential music and movement class, based on the Orff Schulwerk philosophy. Eric Goodchild offers Bagpipe, beginning Violin-Fiddle, & ClawhammerBanjo lessons (10yrs to adult). Tel: 413-625-8203, Email: ebgoodchild@hughes.netMusic for all ages!

Oct 6

Only New England Appearance! Herbie Hancock performs for one night only, Sunday, October 6, 7:30pm at the UMass Amherst Fine Arts Center Concert Hall. There are few artists in the music industry who have had more influence on acoustic and electronic jazz and R&B than Herbie Hancock. With an illustrious career spanning five decades and 14 Grammy® Awards, he continues to amaze audiences. He’ll be joined by his quartet, James Genus on bass, Vinnie Colaiuta on drums, and Lionel Loueke on guitar. Make it a date night with a free pre-show party on the plaza for ticket-holders with appetizers, live entertainment and cash bar. Tent opens at 6pm. For tickets call 413-545-2511 or 1-800-999-UMAS or go online to www.fineartscenter.com.

Dec 6-8

The LEGO® KidsFest is a giant traveling LEGO expo coming to Hartford, CT at the Connecticut Convention Center from December 6-8. This hands-on, educational, all-ages LEGO extravaganza features millions of LEGO bricks, not to mention lots of construction zones, dozens of life-sized LEGO models and displays, LEGO Friends and LEGO Games, group builds such as Creation Nation, live LEGO Master Builders, and so much more covering three acres of space. There are five identical sessions available. Tickets are $18 for kids and $20 for adults. For more information and to purchase tickets, log on to www.LEGOKidsFest.com.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your afterschool class, community event, open house, auditions,homeschool program, community event,workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

Last Saturday at Atlas Farm in Deerfield, Hilltown Families collaborated with Whole Foods Market Hadley and brought families together in the fields for a day of community service, gleaning 669 POUNDS organic kale, collards, chard and broccoli leftover from a recent harvest to donate to The Food Bank of Western MA. See photos in our follow-up post, Kids Day of Community Service Benefits Many! (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BULLETIN BOARD

Sep 14

Pioneer Valley Ballet is pleased to announce auditions forThe Nutcracker are being held on Saturday, September 14, 2013. Children ages 4.5 – 12 are invited to audition and play a role in PVB’s 35th anniversary production. Unique to the region, PVB’s community productions include dancers from the community, PVB students, and professionals. Roles include Reindeer, Angels, Gingerbread, Party Children, Fleur, and Candy Canes. Auditions are held at Pioneer Valley Ballet, 116 Pleasant St, Easthampton on Saturday, September 14 beginning at 10:30am. Registration forms are available online and in PVB’s studio. For more info: pvb@pioneervalleyballet.org or 413-527-6363.

Sep 15

International Dot Day! Make plans to visit The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst this Sunday afternoon, September 15th as they celebrate International Dot Day! Every year, almost a million children and adults around the world devote a whole day to celebrate Peter H. Reynolds’ beloved children’s book, The Dot, a book that encourages personal creativity. The Museum’s celebration on Sunday, Sept 15th from 1-4pm will include films, special storytimes, art activities and a presentation and book signing with The Dot’s author/illustrator Peter H. Reynolds. Visit www.carlemuseum.org for the day’s schedule or call 413-658-1126.

Begins Sep 21

ALMA is a fresh approach to Jewish education for youth and families. ALMA believes that Jewish tradition has the potential to add profound meaning and richness to peoples’ lives and be a force for positive change in the world. ALMA believes that students must genuinely enjoy themselves in order to learn and develop the love of Jewish life that they aspire to impart. ALMA staff work hard to create a culture that is joyful, where their students feel respected and not stifled. ALMA provides engaging communal experiences that inspire and support youth and families to cultivate increasingly meaningful and joyous Jewish lives. ALMA brings Torah to life through engaging each student’s mind, body and soul. More info: rabbijacob@cbinorthampton.org.

Goodchild Music – Music for Life! Barbara Goodchild, a certified Simply Music Teacher, offers the following classes in Shelburne, MA. Simply Music Piano (7 yrs & up): a remarkable, Australian-developed piano program that has beginning students, playing pop, classical, blues and accompaniment pieces – from their first lessons! Play-a-Story (5-7 yrs): an improvisational introduction to piano while making music for stories. Simply Music Rhapsody (3 mos.-5 yrs): an exciting and experiential music and movement class, based on the Orff Schulwerk philosophy. Eric Goodchild offers Bagpipe, beginning Violin-Fiddle, & ClawhammerBanjo lessons (10yrs to adult). Tel: 413-625-8203, Email: ebgoodchild@hughes.netMusic for all ages!

Oct 6

Only New England Appearance! Herbie Hancock performs for one night only, Sunday, October 6, 7:30pm at the UMass Amherst Fine Arts Center Concert Hall. There are few artists in the music industry who have had more influence on acoustic and electronic jazz and R&B than Herbie Hancock. With an illustrious career spanning five decades and 14 Grammy® Awards, he continues to amaze audiences. He’ll be joined by his quartet, James Genus on bass, Vinnie Colaiuta on drums, and Lionel Loueke on guitar. Make it a date night with a free pre-show party on the plaza for ticket-holders with appetizers, live entertainment and cash bar. Tent opens at 6pm. For tickets call 413-545-2511 or 1-800-999-UMAS or go online to www.fineartscenter.com.

3D Mammograms at Cooley Dickinson. 3D mammograms offer more detail and earlier cancer detection. And 3D mammograms are now offered at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. Mammography is the best way to find breast cancer in its earliest stages, when a cure is most likely, the prognosis is better and the treatment choices are greater. 3D mammography, also known as Breast Tomosynthesis, was pioneered at Massachusetts General Hospital and is the latest advancement in breast cancer detection in more than 30 years. Is it time for your mammogram? Get a 3D mammogram exam. To schedule an appointment, call 413-582-2101 (Northampton) or 413-253-8062 (Amherst).

Dec 6-8

The LEGO® KidsFest is a giant traveling LEGO expo coming to Hartford, CT at the Connecticut Convention Center from December 6-8. This hands-on, educational, all-ages LEGO extravaganza features millions of LEGO bricks, not to mention lots of construction zones, dozens of life-sized LEGO models and displays, LEGO Friends and LEGO Games, group builds such as Creation Nation, live LEGO Master Builders, and so much more covering three acres of space. There are five identical sessions available. Tickets are $18 for kids and $20 for adults. For more information and to purchase tickets, log on to www.LEGOKidsFest.com.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your afterschool class, community event, open house, auditions,homeschool program, community event,workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

FEATURED COMMUNITY BUILDING EVENTS

Saturday, September 14th in the Hilltowns from 12noon-7pm: Annual Hilltown Hoot music festival. Washington, MA. (FUNDRAISER)

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

Have you checked out Art in the Orchardin Easthampton yet? It’s definitely a must see! Take your family this weekend for a celebration of art & farming!

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BULLETIN BOARD

Sep 7

JOURNEY, a wordless picture book by local author/illustrator Aaron Becker, celebrates its debut with a behind the scenes look at the book making process this September at the Hope and Feathers gallery in Amherst. Come help kick things off with the artist on Saturday, September 7th from 4-7pm with a wine and cheese affair. The show includes sketches, watercolor tests, book dummies, and final artwork from the New York Times Best Selling picture book. Prints, cards, and signed copies of the book are also for sale. Come see what all the buzz is about! Hope & Feathers is located at 319 Main Street in Amherst. 413-835-0197. A special reading and slide show will precede the event at the Amherst Jones Library at 2pm.

Begins Sep 9

FMC Ice Sports offers a fun and unique learning environment for all ages. Participants in our Step 1 Learn to Skate programs are taught the basics of ice skating without relying on skating aids. This method of teaching increases a skater’s independence on the ice and encourages their learning of balance and maneuverability. Students eventually graduate to our Step 2 and Step 3 programs that focus on the more sport specific skills required in hockey and figure skating. FMC Ice Sports programs can be found at the Smead Arena in Springfield and the Collins Moylan Arena in Greenfield. Class information and registration are available online at www.fmcicesports.com or by calling 1-888-74-SKATE.

Sep 10

Amherst Montessori School has September openings for children ages 15 months – 3 years in the Toddler or La Casita Spanish Toddler programs. Featuring music, movement, and outdoor play daily in a nurturing, child-centered environment. Full- and part-time schedules available. Scholarships available. Open House on September 10th from 10-11:30am at 27 Pomeroy Lane in Amherst! For more information please call Laura Miller, Director of Admissions, at 413-253-3101 or email lmiller@amherstmontessori.org.

Begins Sep 13

Prenatal Yoga Class in Northampton starts Sept 13th. Courtney Hill Wulsin will be teaching a Prenatal Yoga class on Fridays from 11:30-12:30 at the Hampshire Regional YMCA. Free for members and only $10 drop-in for non-members. No yoga experience necessary and all stages of pregnancy welcome. In addition to being a 500-hour Registered Yoga Teacher and Prenatal Yoga Teacher, Courtney is a Licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist specializing in Women’s Health and the birthing year. She is also a trained Birth and Postpartum Doula. This class is ongoing and anyone is welcome to drop in without registration at any time. Mats and props are provided. If you have any questions you can call 413-303-1246 or visit www.windowofheavenacupuncture.com.

Sep 13

Volunteers in Northampton Schools (VINS) Back to School Event is Friday, September, 13th! Are you available to give 1-2 hours a week of time to Northampton public schools? Join VINS for a meet and greet gathering – returning and new volunteers welcome! This event will cover some of the basics about VINS and get into detail about volunteer opportunities in the schools. Where: Forbes Library Community Room (downstairs/ Children’s Library). Time: 10:00 am – 11:30 am. Light morning refreshments will be available. To RSVP, email or call vinsvolunteer@gmail.com / 413-587-1332. Find VINS on Facebook, too! Volunteers in Northampton Schools, Inc. is a private, non-profit organization, founded in 1981.

Sep 14

Pioneer Valley Ballet is pleased to announce auditions for The Nutcracker are being held on Saturday, September 14, 2013. Children ages 4.5 – 12 are invited to audition and play a role in PVB’s 35th anniversary production. Unique to the region, PVB’s community productions include dancers from the community, PVB students, and professionals. Roles include Reindeer, Angels, Gingerbread, Party Children, Fleur, and Candy Canes. Auditions are held at Pioneer Valley Ballet, 116 Pleasant St, Easthampton on Saturday, September 14 beginning at 10:30am. Registration forms are available online and in PVB’s studio. For more info: pvb@pioneervalleyballet.org or 413-527-6363.

Begins Sep 21

Jacob Fine writes, “ALMA is a fresh approach to Jewish education for youth and families. We believe that Jewish tradition has the potential to add profound meaning & richness to our lives and be a force for positive change in our world. We believe that our students must genuinely enjoy themselves in order to learn & develop the love of Jewish life that we aspire to impart. We work hard to create a culture that is joyful, where our students feel respected & not stifled. ALMA provides engaging communal experiences that inspire & support youth & families to cultivate increasingly meaningful and joyous Jewish lives. We bring Torah to life through engaging each student’s mind, body & soul. For information contact rabbijacob@cbinorthampton.org.”

3D Mammograms at Cooley Dickinson. 3D mammograms offer more detail and earlier cancer detection. And 3D mammograms are now offered at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. Mammography is the best way to find breast cancer in its earliest stages, when a cure is most likely, the prognosis is better and the treatment choices are greater. 3D mammography, also known as Breast Tomosynthesis, was pioneered at Massachusetts General Hospital and is the latest advancement in breast cancer detection in more than 30 years. Is it time for your mammogram? Get a 3D mammogram exam. To schedule an appointment, call 413-582-2101 (Northampton) or 413-253-8062 (Amherst).

Dec 6-8

The LEGO® KidsFest is a giant traveling LEGO expo coming to Hartford, CT at the Connecticut Convention Center from December 6-8. This hands-on, educational, all-ages LEGO extravaganza features millions of LEGO bricks, not to mention lots of construction zones, dozens of life-sized LEGO models and displays, LEGO Friends and LEGO Games, group builds such as Creation Nation, live LEGO Master Builders, and so much more covering three acres of space. There are five identical sessions available. Tickets are $18 for kids and $20 for adults. For more information and to purchase tickets, log on to www.LEGOKidsFest.com.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your afterschool class, community event, open house, auditions,homeschool program, community event,workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

Parents’ Night Out! Enter for a chance to win tickets!

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

POSTPONED

POSTPONED

POSTPONED – BENEFIT CONCERT: The Connecticut River Watershed Council presents “Source to Sea with Robin & Linda Williams,” a benefit concert to support the 17th Annual Source to Sea Cleanup. Featuring Robin and Linda Williams and their Fine Group of NPR’s A Prairie Home Companion playing “a robust blend of bluegrass, folk and acoustic country” music. Pat and Tex LaMountain of Greenfield will open. Saturday, September 21, 7:30pm at Memorial Hall, Shelburne Falls, MA. Tickets $15 all seats, for sale at World Eye Books, Mocha Maya’s and Boswell’s Books, online at www.ctriver.org/news-events/concert or by phone at 1-800-838-3006. – POSTPONED

SUGGEST AN EVENT

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

HILLTOWN FAMILIES EVENT

Sep 7th

SERVICE LEARNING: Coming up in September, in collaboration with Whole Foods Market in Hadley and Atlas Farm in Deerfield, Hilltown Families invites families to come together on Saturday, September 7th, 2013 from 11am-2pm in Deerfield for a day of community service, gleaning organic vegetables leftover from a recent harvest to donate to the Food Bank. Join us in a service learning opportunity, giving kids a hands-on look at how their food is grown while supporting the food security efforts of the Food Bank of Western MA. Space is limited and all participating families are asked to pre-register online. More information here: Kids’ Day of Community Service.

BULLETIN BOARD

Begins Sep 4

The Center School‘s new pilot preschool has two openings available (start date, Sept 4) in Greenfield. One opening is full week, full time. The other slot is full day on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The classroom will have six children, aged two to five years. The lead teacher is Amy Jackson. Amy started at the Center School as an intern from Antioch University’s Masters in Education Program. In her time at the school she has served in classrooms, taught in the school’s Afterschool programs, run camps, and run a small daycare program for staff children. Amy is an extraordinarily warm-hearted, energetic, and nurturing teacher. For program information, please email info@centerschool.net or call 413-773-1700 ex1.

Sep 7

JOURNEY, a wordless picture book by local author/illustrator Aaron Becker, celebrates its debut with a behind the scenes look at the book making process this September at the Hope and Feathers gallery in Amherst. Come help kick things off with the artist on Saturday, September 7th from 4-7pm with a wine and cheese affair. The show includes sketches, watercolor tests, book dummies, and final artwork from the New York Times Best Selling picture book. Prints, cards, and signed copies of the book are also for sale. Come see what all the buzz is about! Hope & Feathers is located at 319 Main Street in Amherst. 413-835-0197. A special reading and slide show will precede the event at the Amherst Jones Library at 2pm.

Begins Sep 9

FMC Ice Sports offers a fun and unique learning environment for all ages. Participants in our Step 1 Learn to Skate programs are taught the basics of ice skating without relying on skating aids. This method of teaching increases a skater’s independence on the ice and encourages their learning of balance and maneuverability. Students eventually graduate to our Step 2 and Step 3 programs that focus on the more sport specific skills required in hockey and figure skating. FMC Ice Sports programs can be found at the Smead Arena in Springfield and the Collins Moylan Arena in Greenfield. Class information and registration are available online at www.fmcicesports.com or by calling 1-888-74-SKATE.

Sep 10

Amherst Montessori School has September openings for children ages 15 months – 3 years in the Toddler or La Casita Spanish Toddler programs. Featuring music, movement, and outdoor play daily in a nurturing, child-centered environment. Full- and part-time schedules available. Scholarships available. Open House on September 10th from 10-11:30am at 27 Pomeroy Lane in Amherst! For more information please call Laura Miller, Director of Admissions, at 413-253-3101 or email lmiller@amherstmontessori.org.

Begins Sep 13

Prenatal Yoga Class in Northampton starts Sept 13th. Courtney Hill Wulsin will be teaching a Prenatal Yoga class on Fridays from 11:30-12:30 at the Hampshire Regional YMCA. Free for members and only $10 drop-in for non-members. No yoga experience necessary and all stages of pregnancy welcome. In addition to being a 500-hour Registered Yoga Teacher and Prenatal Yoga Teacher, Courtney is a Licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist specializing in Women’s Health and the birthing year. She is also a trained Birth and Postpartum Doula. This class is ongoing and anyone is welcome to drop in without registration at any time. Mats and props are provided. If you have any questions you can call 413-303-1246 or visit www.windowofheavenacupuncture.com.

Sep 21

POSTPONED – BENEFIT CONCERT: The Connecticut River Watershed Council presents “Source to Sea with Robin & Linda Williams,” a benefit concert to support the 17th Annual Source to Sea Cleanup. Featuring Robin and Linda Williams and their Fine Group of NPR’s A Prairie Home Companion playing “a robust blend of bluegrass, folk and acoustic country” music. Pat and Tex LaMountain of Greenfield will open. Saturday, September 21, 7:30pm at Memorial Hall, Shelburne Falls, MA. Tickets $15 all seats, for sale at World Eye Books, Mocha Maya’s and Boswell’s Books, online at www.ctriver.org/news-events/concert or by phone at 1-800-838-3006. – POSTPONED

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your afterschool class, community event, open house, auditions,homeschool program, community event,workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: On Sunday, Sept 29 from 1-4pm, the Hilltown Village will offer a free volunteer training at the Village Congregational Church, 32 Main St. in Cummington. Hilltown Village prepares volunteers to provide weekly home visits during the first 3 months after a baby is born. A family is matched with a volunteer who visits the family home on a weekly basis. Home visits may include preparing meals, washing dishes, providing companionship, playing with older children, and helping in other ways that a good neighbor or extended family might. Train to be a volunteer. For more info contact Anna Westley, Family & Volunteer Coordinator, at 413-625-6948 or Anna@MotherwellDoulaCare.com. www.itavillage.info. Funded by the United Way of Hampshire County.

Like this:

The Co-Parenting Dance

We are both very involved and strongly opinionated as women and mothers. We both have dedicated our lives to our work/career as long as that means we can be available for our kids when they need us. This “doubling up” is often wonderful but at times creates an experience of constant negotiation…

Many people ask me what it is like to be married to a woman and to co-parent together. Some ask out of pure curiosity as the concept seems so unique to them. Others ask out of envy as they think partnering with a woman would have advantages and moments of ease that heterosexual couples or single parents could only dream of. Sometimes it does.

Rarely though is it considered that there may be very challenging aspects of co-parenting as two women no matter how healthy and loving the partnership is. Just the weight and knowledge of how much discrimination for same sex couples still exist creates an obstacle from the beginning.

There are also absolutely no rules or roles pre-prescribed to the game. My partner and I have to figure out each aspect of parenting as is comes. No one is “supposed” to do anything. This is very freeing but can also get totally complicated. For example, just deciding who would be the birth mom to our kids was certainly an interesting way to kick things off…

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

The Cummington Fair is a gem of an agricultural fair that happens every August in the heart of the Hilltowns. Mark Melhorn, Arjuna Greist and Piet Slaghekke all picked “The Biggest and Best Little Fair in the Country” for our Summer Bucket List!

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

HILLTOWN FAMILIES EVENT

Sep 7th

SERVICE LEARNING: Coming up this September, in collaboration with Whole Foods Market in Hadley and Atlas Farm in Deerfield, Hilltown Families invites families to come together on Saturday, September 7th, 2013 from 11am-2pm in Deerfield for a day of community service, gleaning organic vegetables leftover from a recent harvest to donate to the Food Bank. Join us in a service learning opportunity, giving kids a hands-on look at how their food is grown while supporting the food security efforts of the Food Bank of Western MA. Space is limited and all participating families are asked to pre-register online. More information here: Kids’ Day of Community Service.

Western Massachusetts Agricultural Fairs this Weekend and Next!

BULLETIN BOARD

Aug 26

Ah Ha! Here is a party you won’t want to miss! Come to the Odyssey Bookshop on Monday, August 26th at 2pm to celebrate the release of Jeff Mack’s newest book, Ah Ha!. Join Odyssey staff for an afternoon of silliness, fun and lots of frogs! Jeff Mack will be reading and signing his book followed by games and yummy frog cake! Jeff Mack brings his hallmark humor to this rollicking book that will leave young readers guessing, laughing and on the edge of their seats. Odyssey Bookshop is located at 9 College Street at The Village Commons in South Hadley. 413-534-7307. www.odysseybks.com

Begins Sep 4

The Center School‘s new pilot preschool has two openings available (start date, Sept 4) in Greenfield. One opening is full week, full time. The other slot is full day on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The classroom will have six children, aged two to five years. The lead teacher is Amy Jackson. Amy started at the Center School as an intern from Antioch University’s Masters in Education Program. In her time at the school she has served in classrooms, taught in the school’s Afterschool programs, run camps, and run a small daycare program for staff children. Amy is an extraordinarily warm-hearted, energetic, and nurturing teacher. For program information, please email info@centerschool.net or call 413-773-1700 ex1.

Sep 29th

Cycle towards a hunger-free community this September 29th! Will Bike 4 Food is a fundraiser for The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Leaving from The Food Bank in beautiful Hatfield Mass, 10, 25, 50, and 100 mile routes offer varying challenges for kids, beginners, and experts alike. Choose to ride as an individual or form a team (4 or more). Register online by August 29th for the lowest price! Visit www.foodbankwma.org or call 413-247-9738 for more information. Four Routes. One Destination. A Community Without Hunger.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your afterschool class, community event, open house, auditions,homeschool program, community event,workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com

Tim May writes: “Organized adult pickup soccer game is being held every Monday evening @ 6pm until 7:30pm @ Pettingill Park, Main Street, Cummington. All skill levels welcome, friendly relaxed game with breaks for water. Mostly adults but skilled older kids welcome. Bring light and dark t-shirt. Contact Tim with questions: timothydavidmay@gmail.com. No fee. Will play even in wet weather unless pouring/thundering at kickoff. Many parents bring younger kids to play on nearby playground during games, however adult supervision there is not provided. Pass it on!”

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

The 9th annual Free Harvest Supper takes place on the Greenfield Town Common this Sunday evening, August 18th. Families can enjoy a bountiful, locally sourced (event the salt!) community meal!

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

HILLTOWN FAMILIES EVENT

Sep 7th

SERVICE LEARNING: Coming up this September, in collaboration with Whole Foods Market in Hadley and Atlas Farm in Deerfield, Hilltown Families invites families to come together on Saturday, September 7th, 2013 from 11am-2pm in Deerfield for a day of community service, gleaning organic vegetables leftover from a recent harvest to donate to the Food Bank. Join us in a service learning opportunity, giving kids a hands-on look at how their food is grown while supporting the food security efforts of the Food Bank of Western MA. Space is limited and all participating families are asked to pre-register online. More information here: Kids’ Day of Community Service.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Thursday-Sunday, August 22nd-25th in the Heart of Western MA – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: The annual and beloved Cummington Fair takes place all weekend! Opens at 4pm on Thurs/Fri, and 7am on Sat/Sun. Weekend highlights – along with the opportunity to learn about farming and farm animals, local industries, and agriculture – include antique tractor show, the lumberjack championship, Marvelous Mutts dog show, demolition derby, roast beef, spaghetti & turkey dinners, 4H sheep contest, along with midway rides, games. 97 Fairgrounds Road. Cummington, MA. ($)

BULLETIN BOARD

Aug 26

Ah Ha! Here is a party you won’t want to miss! Come to the Odyssey Bookshop on Monday, August 26th at 2pm to celebrate the release of Jeff Mack’s newest book, Ah Ha!. Join Odyssey staff for an afternoon of silliness, fun and lots of frogs! Jeff Mack will be reading and signing his book followed by games and yummy frog cake! Jeff Mack brings his hallmark humor to this rollicking book that will leave young readers guessing, laughing and on the edge of their seats. Odyssey Bookshop is located at 9 College Street at The Village Commons in South Hadley. 413-534-7307. http://www.odysseybks.com

Sep 29th

Cycle towards a hunger-free community this September 29th! Will Bike 4 Food is a fundraiser for The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Leaving from The Food Bank in beautiful Hatfield Mass, 10, 25, 50, and 100 mile routes offer varying challenges for kids, beginners, and experts alike. Choose to ride as an individual or form a team (4 or more). Register online by August 29th for the lowest price! Visit www.foodbankwma.org or call 413-247-9738 for more information. Four Routes. One Destination. A Community Without Hunger.

Berkshire Trail Elementary School in Cummington is pleased to announce that it is transitioning to an Expeditionary Learning School in September. This cutting-edge program transforms a traditional classroom environment into a vibrant learning community where students are authentically engaged, energized, focused, challenged, and having fun! The program’s successful, ground-breaking strategies are project based, hands-on, creative and authentic — with proven academic results for students in reading, numeracy, research, writing, critical thinking, problem solving and collaboration. School choice openings are now available in grades Pre-K through five. For more information, call Berkshire Trail Elementary School at 413-634-5327 or visit online.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your afterschool class, community event, open house, auditions,homeschool program, community event,workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

HILLTOWN FAMILIES EVENT

Sep 7th

SERVICE LEARNING: Coming up this September, in collaboration with Whole Foods Market in Hadley and Atlas Farm in Deerfield, Hilltown Families invites families to come together on Saturday, September 7th, 2013 from 11am-2pm in Deerfield for a day of community service, gleaning organic vegetables leftover from a recent harvest to donate to the Food Bank. Join us in a service learning opportunity, giving kids a hands-on look at how their food is grown while supporting the food security efforts of the Food Bank of Western MA. Space is limited and all participating families are asked to pre-register online. More information here: Kids’ Day of Community Service.

BULLETIN BOARD

Aug 16th

Northampton & Greenfield Picnics: Join with old friends and new August 16 to celebrate “Shabbat Under the Sky!” Picnic in the park, enjoy music, kid-friendly performances by local performers and a short, guided musical Shabbat service. No Jewish liturgy knowledge required. Runs 5:30-7:30. Bring a potluck dish to share and choose from two locations: Look Park’s Westwood Shelter, Northampton or Green River Recreation Area in Greenfield. Rain or shine, open to the public, free (except Look Park entry fee unless you bike/walk). Gatherings include shofar blowing practice for upcoming Jewish New Year. Bring a vegetarian potluck dish to share. Challah bread, juice, & dessert provided. Information & directions at www.rekindleshabbat.org.

Sep 29th

Cycle towards a hunger-free community this September 29th! Will Bike 4 Food is a fundraiser for The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Leaving from The Food Bank in beautiful Hatfield Mass, 10, 25, 50, and 100 mile routes offer varying challenges for kids, beginners, and experts alike. Choose to ride as an individual or form a team (4 or more). Register online by August 29th for the lowest price! Visit www.foodbankwma.org or call 413-247-9738 for more information. Four Routes. One Destination. A Community Without Hunger.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your community event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event,workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

SUMMER CAMP: Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BEST BETS

Looking for a Parents’ Night Out? For August we have a 4-pack of lawn tickets to see Dropkick Murphys at Mountain Park in Holyoke on Friday, August 16th! You pay for the sitter, we’ll pay for the tickets! Find out how you can enter for a chance to win an evening away from the kids enjoying live music and friends!

Saturday, August 3rd & Sunday, August 4th – HISTORY: Learn about the Civil War through a reenactment at Look Park. The “Battle at the Pines” features a company drill, artillery demonstrations, a naval landing party, a talk on medicine and surgery during wartime, afternoon tea, train robberies, battles, and more! There will also be an authentic Civil War Ballroom cotillion at 7pm with music and called dancing (>$). The reenactment offers a chance to experience what the Civil War was like. 413-584-5457. 300 North Main Street. Florence, MA.

Saturday, August 3rd & Sunday, August 4th – AGRICULTURALFAIR: The 29th Annual Adams Agricultural Fair runs from August 1-August 4 at Bowe Field. The Fair features an antique tractor pull, animal demonstrations, magic, zumba, birds of prey demonstrations, live music, food, a demolition derby, and many other activities. The Fair is an exciting way to learn about agriculture and learn about many things going on in and around Adams that you might not know about. Old Columbia Street. Adams, MA.

Saturday, August 3rd & Sunday, August 4th – HISTORY: Visit Sturbridge Village for the largest Revolutionary War reenactment in New England! “Redcoats and Rebels” transforms the Village into a military camp and offers loads of fun activities that help teach about the war. There will be mock battles, tours of the British and American camps, cannon demonstrations, musket drilling, martial music, 18th-century baseball and dances, a chance to see an American soldier’s daily life, and much more. There will also be a cannonball barrage at 6pm and a chance to hear the love story of John and Abigail Adams. The full schedule of events can be found here. Kids get free admission in August. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. $$

BULLETIN BOARD

Aug 6th

Children’s picture book launch with Western MA author, Aaron Becker at The Odyssey! Discover the magic of local author/illustrator Aaron Becker’s silent world in his debut picture book, Journey at The Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley on Tuesday, August 6th at 4pm, followed by fun drawing activities for kids with the author himself! Aaron Becker has worked as an artist for such film studios as Lucasfilm, Disney, and Pixar. The Odyssey Bookshop will be hosting Aaron Becker as he discusses the making of Journey, a story of a lonely girl who draws a magic door on her bedroom wall and through it escapes into a world where wonder, adventure, and danger abound. Called ‘a masterpiece’ by the New York Times, Journey will inspire and astound you.

Aug 16th

Northampton & Greenfield Picnics: Join with old friends and new August 16 to celebrate “Shabbat Under the Sky!” Picnic in the park, enjoy music, kid-friendly performances by local performers and a short, guided musical Shabbat service. No Jewish liturgy knowledge required. Runs 5:30-7:30. Bring a potluck dish to share and choose from two locations: Look Park’s Westwood Shelter, Northampton or Green River Recreation Area in Greenfield. Rain or shine, open to the public, free (except Look Park entry fee unless you bike/walk). Gatherings include shofar blowing practice for upcoming Jewish New Year. Bring a vegetarian potluck dish to share. Challah bread, juice, & dessert provided. Information & directions at www.rekindleshabbat.org.

Sep 29th

Cycle towards a hunger-free community this September 29th! Will Bike 4 Food is a fundraiser for The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Leaving from The Food Bank in beautiful Hatfield Mass, 10, 25, 50, and 100 mile routes offer varying challenges for kids, beginners, and experts alike. Choose to ride as an individual or form a team (4 or more). Register online by August 29th for the lowest price! Visit www.foodbankwma.org or call 413-247-9738 for more information. Four Routes. One Destination. A Community Without Hunger.

Berkshire Trail Elementary School in Cummington is pleased to announce that it is transitioning to an Expeditionary Learning School in September. This cutting-edge program transforms a traditional classroom environment into a vibrant learning community where students are authentically engaged, energized, focused, challenged, and having fun! The program’s successful, ground-breaking strategies are project based, hands-on, creative and authentic — with proven academic results for students in reading, numeracy, research, writing, critical thinking, problem solving and collaboration. School choice openings are now available in grades Pre-K through five. For more information, call Berkshire Trail Elementary School at 413-634-5327 or visit online.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your community event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event,workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

SUMMER CAMP: Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com

How to Stop a Power Struggle

Before I reacted, I luckily remembered the finger trap and realized that I would only get us more intertwined in the conflict if I burst out with anger and worry even though I felt that way inside.

My youngest son will be 6 in six days. He is bursting into life with passion and strength and is becoming keenly aware of what his likes and dislikes are, his trigger points and what he values most.

This past spring though it seemed like his trigger points were getting the best of him and he was becoming upset on an unusually frequent basis. Often his emotions were displayed as anger. My partner and I noticed increased feet stomping, door slamming, fighting with his brother, and refusing to do certain things. His Moms were losing patience and responding with frustration and anger as well. Something had to change.

Around the same time period, our oldest son brought home a toy that looked like a small woven bamboo cylinder. He asked me to try it. All I had to do was put my two index fingers in each end and then pull my fingers back out. When I pulled to get out, the cylinder became tighter and actually trapped my fingers. I stopped pulling because I wasn’t getting free and I worried I would break it if I continued to pull…

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

Western Massachusetts’ very own Oxbow Water Ski Show Team host the 29th Annual Eastern Region Ski Show Tournament this weekend in Northampton on the Connecticut River. Sunday is the day to go! Four teams put on an hour show each starting at 9am. Great family fun! (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BEST BETS

Weekend of July 27th & 28th in Hampshire County – WATER SKI SHOW: Did you know Western MA has it’s very own water ski show team? The Oxbow Water Ski Show Team, established over 30 years ago, is hosting the annual Eastern Region Water Ski Show Tournament this weekend. Four teams from New England come together to compete, each putting on a one hour water ski show the whole family will enjoy! Saturday are individual acts, including Swivel, Adagio Doubles, Freestyle Jump, and Team Jump. On Sunday (the day to go!) each team will put on a one-hour show starting at 9am including barefooting, swivel skiing, jumping, ballet lines, doubles, and of course the impressive human pyramids, 3-4 people high! Where else are you going to see something like this outside of Florida? BYO blanket & chairs. 413-626-1913. Oxbow Marina. 100 Old Springfield Road. Northampton, MA (FREE, >$ PARKING)

Hilltown Families and the Berkshire Theatre Group have partnered up to offer a free family 4-pack of tickets to see the Group’s Acting Apprentice Co. performance of Rudyard Kipling’s “Just So Stories” in Stockbridge at The Ellenoff Stage on Saturday, August 3rd at 11am!

Saturday, July 27th in Franklin County from 12noon-12midnight – MUSIC FESTIVAL: The Upper Valley Music Festival returns for its third year in Turners Falls. The Festival features live music and is a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society and the Franklin County Relay for Life. There are several venues around town, but the main stage is the Shea Theatre. See here for more information, including the full schedule. Kids under 12 get in for free. 71 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. $

Saturday, July 27th in BerkshireCounty at 1pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: The Clark Art Institute celebrates the fifth anniversary of the Stone Hill Center, a gallery space on the grounds. Families are invited to explore the Center, tour the Kidspace exhibition Lions, and Tigers, and Museums, Oh My!, and to build their own fairy houses in the woods. There will also be a cookout and free cake and ice cream at 3:30pm. Explore the museum and grounds and celebrate one of the Berkshires’ architectural gems. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)

Saturday, July 27th in Hampden County from 2pm & 6:30pm – THEATER: The Majestic Children’s Theater is putting on a production of Alice in Wonderland. Kids will enjoy this classic story and maybe even be inspired to start acting themselves! Registration is recommended. 413-747-7797. 131 Elm Street. WestSpringfield, MA. $

BULLETIN BOARD

Jul 27th

Starlight Youth Theatre is excited to announce their summer production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat featuring Starlight Alumni, friends, teens & the talented youth chorus. This hilarious show by Andrew Lloyd Webber & Tim Rice tells the story of the trials and triumphs of Jacob’s favorite son which is told entirely in song blending 50s Rock-n-Roll, Country Western, Calypso & Pop. The shows are at the Academy of Music Theatre in Northampton on Saturday July 27th at 2pm & 7pm. Tickets are available online – Academyofmusictheatre.tix.com, at the Academy box office or by phone 413-584-9032. For more info, visit: starlights-youth-theatre.com. Starlight’s summer shows are a special treat for the whole family – come join the fun!

Sep 29th

Cycle towards a hunger-free community this September 29th! Will Bike 4 Food is a fundraiser for The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Leaving from The Food Bank in beautiful Hatfield Mass, 10, 25, 50, and 100 mile routes offer varying challenges for kids, beginners, and experts alike. Choose to ride as an individual or form a team (4 or more). Register online by August 29th for the lowest price! Visit www.foodbankwma.org or call 413-247-9738 for more information. Four Routes. One Destination. A Community Without Hunger.

Sunnyside Child Care Center in Northampton, an award winning early education program, is moving to a new, larger space at 557 Easthampton Road. There are full and part-time openings for toddler and preschool aged children. 3, 4 and 5 day options for morning-only and full-days are available. For 38 years, Sunnyside has been serving the Northampton Community. Their new building offers large, bright classrooms and 8 acres of woodlands to explore. NAEYC Accredited. Call Susan Beemer, Director, at 413-585-2293. Visit their website at www.sunnysidekids.org.

Berkshire Trail Elementary School in Cummington is pleased to announce that it is transitioning to an Expeditionary Learning School in September. This cutting-edge program transforms a traditional classroom environment into a vibrant learning community where students are authentically engaged, energized, focused, challenged, and having fun! The program’s successful, ground-breaking strategies are project based, hands-on, creative and authentic — with proven academic results for students in reading, numeracy, research, writing, critical thinking, problem solving and collaboration. School choice openings are now available in grades Pre-K through five. For more information, call Berkshire Trail Elementary School at 413-634-5327 or visit online.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your community event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event,workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

SUMMER CAMP: Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BEST BETS

Saturday, July 20th from 9am-5pm in the Pioneer Valley – CULTURAL STUDIES/FESTIVAL: The 20th annual Glasgow Lands Scottish Festival is taking place at Look Park! There will be live music, animals, games, historical reenactments, demonstrations, activities, and more! The festival is a fun way for families to celebrate and learn about Scottish history and culture while enjoying all the festival has to offer. 413-862-8095. 300 North Main Street. Florence, MA. $$

Saturday, July 20th at 11:30am in the Berkshires – MUSIC STUDIES/INNOVATIVE MUSIC:Bang on a Can is a music organization that performs classical, eclectic, and innovative music in a festival at MASS MoCA each year. The whole family is invited to play along with Bang on a Can faculty and fellows at MASS MoCA’s Club B-10. They will bring unique and everyday instruments to demonstrate and let you play along with. Learn about different musical styles and techniques at this exciting performance. 413-662-2111. 1040 MASS MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. >$

Saturday, July 20th from 12noon-10:30pm in the Hilltowns – POETRY/HISTORY/NATURE STUDIES: Celebrate poet William Cullen Bryant at the Trustees of Reservations’ Bryant Day Celebration. Discover the natural wonders of the William Cullen Bryant Homestead, hear live music, read Bryant’s poems, do yoga, and participate in a moongazing activity. These activities will help visitors connect with the Homestead and learn about the history and works of the man for whom it is named. 413-532-1631 x10. 207 Bryant Road. Cummington, MA. >$

Sunday, July 21st from 9am-3pm in the Pioneer Valley – LOCAL HISTORY/INDUSTRY: Celebrate Springfield history and industry at the Springfield Museums’ Indian Motorcycle Day. Indian Motorcycles were manufactured in Springfield from 1901 to 1953, and the Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History has a collection of vintage Indian bikes. See the classic motorcycles, browse vendor displays, hear a DJ play classic rock tunes, and see a motorcycle best of competition. This is a fun way to learn about Springfield history while seeing beautiful vintage motorcycles. 413-263-6800 x304. 21 Edwards Street. Springfield, MA. $$

BULLETIN BOARD

Sunnyside Child Care Center in Northampton, an award winning early education program, is moving to a new, larger space at 557 Easthampton Road. There are full and part-time openings for toddler and preschool aged children. 3, 4 and 5 day options for morning-only and full-days are available. For 38 years, Sunnyside has been serving the Northampton Community. Their new building offers large, bright classrooms and 8 acres of woodlands to explore. NAEYC Accredited. Call Susan Beemer, Director, at 413-585-2293. Visit their website at www.sunnysidekids.org.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your community event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event,workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

SUMMER CAMP: Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com

Culinary Arts & Local Food: Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA) is hosting an opportunity for kids who like to cook: submit your favorite recipe using local ingredients, & your recipe could be featured in an upcoming cookbook! CISA has partnered with local cookbook author Deanna Cook, whose cookbook for kids is scheduled to be published by Storey Publishing in fall 2014. Recipes eligible for the recipe contest should prominently feature seasonal, locally-grown foods. Youth of all ages are invited to participate. Parents are encouraged to help with ideas, skills beyond the age of the lead chef, & writing up recipes, but recipes should be kid-driven & kid-friendly. CISA will also feature appropriate recipes at www.buylocalfood.org.

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BEST BETS

Saturday, July 13th from 10am-4pm in Franklin County – COMMUNITY EVENT: Summerfest, the Greenfield Sidewalk Sales, is more than just about supporting local economic development… it’s also a terrific community building events and loads of fun for families! Dance performances, dunking booth, hula hooping, pie eating, kids day at the farmers’ market, magic show, arts & crafts… lots of fun and a festive day with over 40 shops & vendors! Happens both Friday & Saturday. See brochure. Greenfield, MA (FREE/SALE)

Saturday, July 13th at 7:30pm in Berkshire County – THEATER: The Williamstown Theatre Festival’s free performance this year is Dracula, or the Un-Dead. This family-friendly adaptation of Bram Stoker’s classic tale will be performed outdoors at Poker Flats Field on the Williams College campus. Bring the whole family and a picnic and enjoy this classic story. More information and garlicky recipes to keep Dracula away can be found on the WTF website. 413-597-3400. 45 Stetson Road. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)

Sunday, July 14th from 11am-1pm in Hampden County – NATURE STUDIES: Did you know that over 50% of the world’s plant and animal species can be found in rainforests? These ecosystems are important to the earth for their unique characteristics and beneficial to humans for the natural resources they provide. You can learn all about these incredible forests at Forest Park Zoo’s Rainforest Day! Play rainforest games and meet animals that live there up close! 413-733-2251. 302 Sumner Avenue. Springfield, MA. $

Sunday, July 14th at 8pm in Hampshire County – THEATER: The Mettawee Theatre Company will perform Taliesin, based on a medieval Welsh tale. The play features giant figures, masks, and puppets. Bring the whole family and enjoy this imaginative and exciting performance. This is part of the Ko Festival of Performance at Amherst College. The performance takes place on the Observatory Lawn. 413-542-3750. Snell Street. Amherst, MA. $

BULLETIN BOARD

Jul 13

It’s Circus Time at the Emily Dickinson Museum! On Saturday, July 13, the Emily Dickinson Museum in Amherst presents “Creatures of Bliss and Mystery: A 19th-Century Children’s Circus” from 1 to 4 pm. Especially appropriate for children ages 3 to 10, this Family Day is free and open to all. Activities include folksongs and stories with Tim Van Egmond; a performance by Henry the Juggler; the Circus Parade; and special bedroom tours (nominal fee). Other activities include a scavenger hunt, “tightrope” walking and other games, and kid friendly crafts – music makers and fairy houses. For details and complete schedule, visit www.emilydickinsonmuseum.org. With questions, contact Valerie Gramling, program coordinator, at 413-542-2034.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your community event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event,workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

SUMMER CAMP: Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com

Children’s Literature Festival Features Local History. The annual Children’s Literature Festival sponsored by the Mary Lyon Foundation will be held mornings 8:30am-12noon from July 28 to August 2, 2013 at the Buckland-Shelburne Elementary School in Shelburne Falls for children in grades K-6. The theme this year is local history & the program will feature special stories, arts & crafts, poetry, music, old fashioned games & much more. Local history will be highlighted by special guests. The $50 registration fee covers all materials & snacks. Scholarships available. To register or for more details call Toni Wilcox at 413-863-9418 or Sue Samoriski at 413-625-2555 or email booklady2@hotmail.com. Space is limited & this program fills up quickly.

Culinary Arts & Local Food: Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA) is hosting an opportunity for kids who like to cook: submit your favorite recipe using local ingredients,& your recipe could be featured in an upcoming cookbook! CISA has partnered with local cookbook author Deanna Cook, whose cookbook for kids is scheduled to be published by Storey Publishing in fall 2014. Recipes eligible for the recipe contest should prominently feature seasonal, locally-grown foods. Youth of all ages are invited to participate. Parents are encouraged to help with ideas, skills beyond the age of the lead chef, & writing up recipes, but recipes should be kid-driven & kid-friendly. CISA will also feature appropriate recipes at www.buylocalfood.org.

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BEST BETS

Happy 4th of July! So many places to see fireworks and parades in Western MA!

Saturday, July 6th from 10am-5pm in Hampshire County – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: Celebrate music, art, summer, and the Hilltowns at the third annual Hilltown Arts Festival! There will be live music, art for sale, a silent auction, kid’s activities, children’s performance, arts and crafts, and so much more! In addition to fun activities and performances, there will also be food for sale. 413-238-0192. Route 112. Worthington, MA. (FREE)

Saturday, July 6th from 4pm-10pm in Hampden County – FIREWORKS: There will be fireworks, food, and music at Stanley Park, sponsored by the Westfield Rotary Club. Rain date is 7/7. 413-568-9312. 400 Western Avenue. Westfield, MA. (FREE)

60 Summer Suggestions: Things to Do & Places to See in Western MA

Saturday, July 6th at 7pm in Berkshire County – SING ALONG: Ever wanted to know what it’s like to be a T-bird or a Pink Lady, but never quite felt cool enough to pull it off? Well, now is your chance to don those poodle skirts or grease up your hair in a rockabilly style, and let your inhibitions go for an evening where you are the star in Sing-a-Long Grease at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center. Belt out songs like “Summer Lovin'” and “Greased Lightning” as the 1978 hit movie starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John plays, complete with on-screen lyrics. Fun for kids and adults alike, this interactive show features a costume competition, goody bags, and plenty of laughs. 413-528-0100. 14 Castle Street. Great Barrington, MA ($$)

BULLETIN BOARD

Jul 13

It’s Circus Time at the Emily Dickinson Museum! On Saturday, July 13, the Emily Dickinson Museum in Amherst presents “Creatures of Bliss and Mystery: A 19th-Century Children’s Circus” from 1 to 4 pm. Especially appropriate for children ages 3 to 10, this Family Day is free and open to all. Activities include folksongs and stories with Tim Van Egmond; a performance by Henry the Juggler; the Circus Parade; and special bedroom tours (nominal fee). Other activities include a scavenger hunt, “tightrope” walking and other games, and kid friendly crafts – music makers and fairy houses. For details and complete schedule, visit www.emilydickinsonmuseum.org. With questions, contact Valerie Gramling, program coordinator, at 413-542-2034.

Jul 3-6; Jul 17-20; Jul 31 – Aug 3

PaintBox Theatre is a theatre of improvisation and imagination for the whole family. Start with a children’s classic. Add three actors. Add the Paintbox stage & a screen. Add artwork (by kids). Add lots of audience participation & improvisation. Stir well. There you go: Paintbox! This season: Little Red Riding Hood, July 3-6; Once Upon a Cool Motorcycle Dude, July 17-20; and King Kong, Jr., July 31- August 3. All shows are presented in Theatre 14, Mendenhall Center for the Performing Arts, Green Street, on the Smith College Campus in Northampton, MA. Call for more information: 413-585-3220. Or visit online at www.newcenturytheatre.org/paintbox.html.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your summer event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event,workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

SUMMER CAMP: Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com

Children’s Literature Festival Features Local History. The annual Children’s Literature Festival sponsored by the Mary Lyon Foundation will be held mornings 8:30am-12noon from July 28 to August 2, 2013 at the Buckland-Shelburne Elementary School in Shelburne Falls for children in grades K-6. The theme this year is local history & the program will feature special stories, arts & crafts, poetry, music, old fashioned games & much more. Local history will be highlighted by special guests. The $50 registration fee covers all materials & snacks. Scholarships available. To register or for more details call Toni Wilcox at 413-863-9418 or Sue Samoriski at 413-625-2555 or email booklady2@hotmail.com. Space is limited & this program fills up quickly.

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

Happy 4th of July!

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BET BETS

4th of July Highlights! From the state where the American Revolution began, families can take part in the multitude of 4th of July celebrations happening in Western MA. Check our 4th of July preview of events, parades & fireworks happening to celebrate in Western MA: 2013 Fourth of July Celebrations & Fireworks

Saturday, June 29th from 11am-10pm in Hampden County – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: Chicopee Fest-Of-All, a three day celebration, happens all day on Saturday, rain or shine! Held at Szot Park, the festival hosts games, music and food! Largely known as a food festival, there will be local food vendors from around the Pioneer Valley serving up great eats! Fireworks happen Saturday evening. 100 Abby Memorial Drive. Chicopee, MA (FREE)

Saturday, June 29th from 5pm-10:30pm in Hampshire County – FIREWORKS: Celebrate the Fourth of July at the Easthampton Spirit Extravaganza at Galbraith Field. There will be food, music, hot air balloon rides, a rock wall, face painting, a BMX stunt show, fireworks, and more! Please bring blankets and chairs. Rain date 6/30. Taft Avenue. Easthampton, MA. (DONATION)

Sunday, June 30th from 11am-4pm in Berkshire County – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Americana Family Day at The Clark! Families will have the opportunity to go back in time to experience some of the sights and sounds of nineteenth-century America as painted by George Inness and Winslow Homer. Sing along to performances by a troupe of sea shanty men, enter the pie-eating contest, learn to fly-fish, paint with watercolors, stand on the deck of a ship, play lawn games from the 1800s—and much more. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA (FREE)

BULLETIN BOARD

Jul 3-6; Jul 17-20; Jul 31 – Aug 3

PaintBox Theatre is a theatre of improvisation and imagination for the whole family. Start with a children’s classic. Add three actors. Add the Paintbox stage & a screen. Add artwork (by kids). Add lots of audience participation & improvisation. Stir well. There you go: Paintbox! This season: Little Red Riding Hood, July 3-6; Once Upon a Cool Motorcycle Dude, July 17-20; and King Kong, Jr., July 31- August 3. All shows are presented in Theatre 14, Mendenhall Center for the Performing Arts, Green Street, on the Smith College Campus in Northampton, MA. Call for more information: 413-585-3220. Or visit online at www.newcenturytheatre.org/paintbox.html.

Host families are needed for exchange students attending the Academy at Charlemont and other area high schools this fall. Hosting is a great way to learn first-hand about another culture and to share your life with an international student. Students from over 70 countries are available. Host families provide a place for the student to sleep, meals, and a warm home environment. Students have their own spending money and medical insurance. Single parents, young couples and empty-nesters are all encouraged to apply. Interested families should contact Ann Newsmith, 802-257-4710, exchangevt@gmail.com. PAX is a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing mutual respect among the people of the world. www.pax.org.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your summer event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event,workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!

COMMUNITY SERVICE/TEENS: The Amherst Survival Center has volunteer opportunities for teens ages 15yo+ on weekdays (not Wed). Shifts are typically 2 hours/week between 9am-3pm. There are several places for teens & adults to volunteer. In a recent inquire about volunteer opportunities for teens they responded, “We look for a minimum of a two hour/week commitment for a minimum of 8 weeks…If they are able to get here in the morning, we need help organizing and sorting through fresh bread and produce from area markets and farms which we then distribute to about 100 people/day. If they have a super organized closet, they may be a good fit for helping in our Free Store. Certain days we also need help serving lunch and doing dishes. And our Emergency Food Pantry often needs help keeping the shelves stocked and helping folks fill their carts with their monthly food “box.” Strong folks can help pick up furniture from around town in the mornings. And people who like to clean can help clean the place after 2:30PM. Lots and lots of options.” For more information visit their website at www.amherstsurvival.org or email tracey@amherstsurvival.org

Family Dinners: Joy or Indigestion?

The extensive research on the benefits of family dinners has seemed to define eating together as the make it or break it sign to raising healthy, well-adjusted children. I do agree that family meals have potential to be an opportunity to catch up on the day’s events and bond in the midst of our busy world. For years though, I have been challenged in my experience with family dinners and prefer to bond with my family in other ways. It is only recently that I have felt a shift.

When our boys were really little we would feed them early. After dinner some play, books and then bed. Next came much needed grown up relaxation time often complete with spicy food, red wine and uninterrupted conversation with my sweetheart. I thought this was the best of both worlds. As the boys grew though, things gradually changed. Baseball practices, homework, play dates and more pushed bedtime later. Eating after the kids went to bed was now too late. My partner loved the idea of having more family dinners and so I yielded to her wishes and committed to making it happen.

Often though, I have felt overwhelmed at the table. I always begin with the intention of being mindful and present with my loved ones but quickly slip into a state of constant negotiation. I become focused on moderating the noise level or making sure people take turns talking. I carefully watch for opportunities to teach and enforce appropriate manners. I commonly request slowing down the eating and remind boys to stay in seats…

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

Pick up some rhubarb and strawberries at your local farmer’s market or roadside stand this weekend and make a pie with this delicious duo before the season has completely gone by! Want to PYO strawberries? See where our readers suggest going with the kids in our archived post, Q&A: Local Strawberries.

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BET BETS & MARK YOUR CALENDARS

4th of July Highlights! From the state where the American Revolution began, families can take part in the multitude of 4th of July celebrations happening in Western MA beginning this weekend and for the next two weeks. Check out our 4th of July preview of events, parades & fireworks happening to celebrate in Western MA: 2013 Fourth of July Celebrations & Fireworks

BULLETIN BOARD

Jun 22 & 23

Our Shire’s beloved Mutton & Mead Tavern & Inne will be hosting its annual festival for your merriment. Enjoy the realm’s finest Entertainers as the legend of Robin Hood unfolds around you! Witness the daring spectacle of Knights Jousting, and hear the dulcet tones of minstrels songs. Stroll the enchanted paths of Sherwood Forest, encountering faeries, pixies and wood sprites. Adorn yourself with Merchants’ wares. Feast on the kingdom’s best Victuals, Meads and Ales. A Fundraiser for the Montague Common Hall & The Foodbank of Western Mass. Bring canned goods for a discount at the gate! June 22-23, 10am-6pm, 210 Turners Falls Road, Montague, MA. $15 Adults, $10 Kids and Seniors. Visit www.MuttonAndMead.com for details. Huzzah!

Reg deadline: Jun 23

Music Together® for Valley Families offers music and movement classes for 0 – 5 year olds and the grownups who love them.Their summer session begins July 1, 2013 in Amherst, Belchertown and South Hadley. Beloved by millions of families and early childhood educators, the program is now taught in 48 states and 40 other countries and is celebrating their 25 anniversary! Pioneering the idea of research based, developmentally appropriate early childhood music education, it emphasizes and facilitates caregiver involvement in a child’s musical growth. Registration deadline: June 23. Limited financial aid available. Contact: 413-259-9400, www.valleymusicgroup.com and on Facebook.

Jul 3-6; Jul 17-20; Jul 31 – Aug 3

PaintBox Theatre is a theatre of improvisation and imagination for the whole family. Start with a children’s classic. Add three actors. Add the Paintbox stage & a screen. Add artwork (by kids). Add lots of audience participation & improvisation. Stir well. There you go: Paintbox! This season: Little Red Riding Hood, July 3-6; Once Upon a Cool Motorcycle Dude, July 17-20; and King Kong, Jr., July 31- August 3. All shows are presented in Theatre 14, Mendenhall Center for the Performing Arts, Green Street, on the Smith College Campus in Northampton, MA. Call for more information: 413-585-3220. Or visit online at www.newcenturytheatre.org/paintbox.html.

Host families are needed for exchange students attending the Academy at Charlemont and other area high schools this fall. Hosting is a great way to learn first-hand about another culture and to share your life with an international student. Students from over 70 countries are available. Host families provide a place for the student to sleep, meals, and a warm home environment. Students have their own spending money and medical insurance. Single parents, young couples and empty-nesters are all encouraged to apply. Interested families should contact Ann Newsmith, 802-257-4710, exchangevt@gmail.com. PAX is a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing mutual respect among the people of the world. www.pax.org.Cooley Dickinson Hospital: After a career coaching and playing ice hockey, Don “Toot” Cahoon couldn’t even tie his shoes without agonizing pain. A few months after getting a new hip from the Joint Replacement Center at Cooley Dickinson Hospital, he was walking, jogging, biking and skating pain free. The Joint Replacement at Cooley is second to none. It has a spectacular record in terms of safety and infections. Those are two very serious considerations when you are having a procedure like this. To hear the rest of Toot’s success story and hear from other patients, visit www.TheTalkIsGood.com.

Cooley Dickinson Childbirth Center: Voted “Best” Again in the Valley Advocate’s Readers Poll. For Granby residents Alyssa and Philip LaFlamme, Cooley Dickinson’s Childbirth Center was the comfortable choice. “From the moment I called to say I was on my way, I felt reassured and well taken care of,” said Alyssa, who praises labor and delivery nurse Terri Jay who “helped keep me calm when I had a few moments of panic.” Alyssa consistently received personalized care. “My friends have gone other places and they say they feel like a number at other hospitals.” The LaFlammes are not alone in their choice. For the third consecutive year, families have voted the Childbirth Center the Best Birthing Center in the Valley Advocate’s Readers’ Poll.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your April vacation event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event, workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BEST BETS FOR FATHER’S DAY: Sunday, June 16th

Hilltown Families and Iron Horse Entertainment Group have partnered up to offer a chance to win free tickets to see adult venues in the Pioneer Valley for a PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT! You pay for the sitter, we’ll pay for the tickets! On Friday, June 21st at Mountain Park in Holyoke is Chicago, winner of the Grammy’s Lifetime Achievement Award… and we’re giving away a 4-pack of lawn tickets for a group of friends to enjoy an evening out! Win the tickets and take your spouse, partner and gang of BFF’s for a fun evening away from the kids! Deadline to enter to win is Tuesday, 06/18/13 @ 7pm (EST). Details here.

In Berkshire County from 8:30am-11:30am – NATURAL HISTORY & OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: Canoe the Housatonic River through Bartholomew’s Cobble on a Father’s Day canoe trip. Participants will learn about the river’s habitats and history while experiencing the many sights and sounds offered by this beautiful part of New England. 413-229-8600. 105 Weatogue Road. Sheffield, MA. $$

In Hampshire County at 1pm – COMMUNITY EVENT: All are invited to attend One Billion Fathers Rising, an event hosted by Umoja Now, that works to end violence and abuse in all communities across the globe. There will be live poetry, music, and theatrical performances, as well as speakers. Please bring a chair and come prepared to learn and make a difference in the world. 129 Main Street. Northampton, MA.

In Franklin County at 2pm – MUSIC/CULTURAL STUDIES: Come celebrate Father’s Day and the upcoming Summer Solstice with Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center and Gaia Roots World Music at Unity Park in Turners Falls. There will be demonstrations of Caribbean and West African rhythms, instruments, and songs. People of all ages can then try their hand at drumming in a community music jam. Please bring your own chair. 800-859-2960. First Street. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)

In Hampden County at 6pm – LAWN CONCERT: The Westfield Bank Sunday Night Concert Series at Stanley Park’s Beveridge Pavilion Annex is a great place to relax on the lawn with the family. Pack a picnic dinner and come to the Park to enjoy live music, community, and time with the dad in your life! Chairs available. 413-568-9312. 400 Western Avenue. Westfield, MA. (FREE)

BULLETIN BOARD

Jun 17

Little Bear Learn & Care is having a Preschool Open House on Monday, June 17th from 6-7:30pm. LBLC is located at 184 Northampton Street in Easthampton and all are welcome. Come visit their center and meet the teachers. Little Bear’s philosophy stresses that the preschool years are vital in developing skills needed to be successful later in life. The curriculum provides meaningful experiences which encourage development in social/emotional, physical and cognitive areas. The children’s interests lead the teachers in designing activities which actively involve them in the learning process. Limited slots are available for our summer and fall programs. Contact info: www.littlebearlearn.com/ maurybear@gmail.com You can also find them on Facebook!

Jun 22 & 23

Our Shire’s beloved Mutton & Mead Tavern & Inne will be hosting its annual festival for your merriment. Enjoy the realm’s finest Entertainers as the legend of Robin Hood unfolds around you! Witness the daring spectacle of Knights Jousting, and hear the dulcet tones of minstrels songs. Stroll the enchanted paths of Sherwood Forest, encountering faeries, pixies and wood sprites. Adorn yourself with Merchants’ wares. Feast on the kingdom’s best Victuals, Meads and Ales. A Fundraiser for the Montague Common Hall & The Foodbank of Western Mass. Bring canned goods for a discount at the gate! June 22-23, 10am-6pm, 210 Turners Falls Road, Montague, MA. $15 Adults, $10 Kids and Seniors. Visit www.MuttonAndMead.com for details. Huzzah!

Reg deadline: Jun 23

Music Together® for Valley Families offers music and movement classes for 0 – 5 year olds and the grownups who love them.Their summer session begins July 1, 2013 in Amherst, Belchertown and South Hadley. Beloved by millions of families and early childhood educators, the program is now taught in 48 states and 40 other countries and is celebrating their 25 anniversary! Pioneering the idea of research based, developmentally appropriate early childhood music education, it emphasizes and facilitates caregiver involvement in a child’s musical growth. Registration deadline: June 23. Limited financial aid available. Contact: 413-259-9400, www.valleymusicgroup.com and on Facebook.

Jun 24 – Aug 16

The Bement School offers a wide variety of summer programs for students from 15 months to 15 years. Located on a beautiful campus in historic Deerfield, Bement’s programs combine the summer fun of a traditional day camp with field trips and enrichment programs. The Preschool Program provides a safe, nurturing camp experience for the youngest campers. Adventures in Chinese is a full-day Chinese language and culture program. The Adventure Camp offers games, crafts, swimming, and field trips. The Junior Counselor Program gives teens experience working with children, developing valuable job skills, and enjoying summer fun. Summer programs run from June 24 to August 16. Call 413-774-7061 or visit bement.org/summer for more information.

Cooley Dickinson Hospital: After a career coaching and playing ice hockey, Don “Toot” Cahoon couldn’t even tie his shoes without agonizing pain. A few months after getting a new hip from the Joint Replacement Center at Cooley Dickinson Hospital, he was walking, jogging, biking and skating pain free. The Joint Replacement at Cooley is second to none. It has a spectacular record in terms of safety and infections. Those are two very serious considerations when you are having a procedure like this. To hear the rest of Toot’s success story and hear from other patients, visit www.TheTalkIsGood.com.

Cooley Dickinson Childbirth Center: Voted “Best” Again in the Valley Advocate’s Readers Poll. For Granby residents Alyssa and Philip LaFlamme, Cooley Dickinson’s Childbirth Center was the comfortable choice. “From the moment I called to say I was on my way, I felt reassured and well taken care of,” said Alyssa, who praises labor and delivery nurse Terri Jay who “helped keep me calm when I had a few moments of panic.” Alyssa consistently received personalized care. “My friends have gone other places and they say they feel like a number at other hospitals.” The LaFlammes are not alone in their choice. For the third consecutive year, families have voted the Childbirth Center the Best Birthing Center in the Valley Advocate’s Readers’ Poll.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your April vacation event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event, workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

WEEKEND BEST BET

Saturday, June 8th in Franklin County from 10am-4pm – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: The 25th annual RiverFest is here! Come celebrate the Deerfield River by participating in arts and crafts workshops, the Frog and Flower Parade, birds of prey demonstration, live music, observing aquatic insects, and much more. This annual event is great fun for the entire family and gives you the chance to be involved in the community while celebrating, and learning about, this amazing watershed! Bridge Street. Shelburne Falls, MA. (FREE)

Saturday, June 8th in Hampden County from 1pm-11pm – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: The Rotary Club of West Springfield presents West Side’s Taste of the Valley 2013. This event includes food from area restaurants, live music, rides and games for kids and teens, animal rides, and a petting zoo. Bring the whole family and enjoy a weekend of fun for all. 413-883-5900. Park Street Town Common. West Springfield, MA.

Saturday, June 8th in Hampshire County from 3pm-8pm – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION/ARTS: Arthampton and Art Walk Easthampton will feature puppet shows, live music, theatrical performances, and a sidewalk parade. There will also be exhibitions, a fundraiser for the Pascommuck Land Trust, and more! 413-527-8278. 43 Main Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE)

Sunday, June 9th in Berkshire County from 11am-3pm: COMMUNITY DAY: Bring the family and spend the day at The Mount! Tour this historic home, explore their magnificent gardens and trails, and take in the surroundings. Scavenger hunts, story times, and other activities throughout the day. A great way to discover this Berkshire County treasure with the kids! 413-551-5111. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA (FREE)

BULLETIN BOARD

Children’s Book Festival: A Fairy Garden Celebration. On Saturday, June 8th, grab your wings and come celebrate the magical world of fairies and gnomes at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, MA from 10am-5pm! Join local authors and illustrators for a fun day of building fairy houses, creating apple head elfin puppets and learning how to draw a dragon. Plus storytimes and book signings! See the Galapagos Puppets perform, Badger Meets the Fairies. Be inspired by the world of fantasy, the magic of fairy tales, and the natural world during their annual Children’s Book Festival. Fairy and gnome inspired costumes are welcome! Visit www.carlemuseum.org for the day’s schedule or call 413-658-1126.

Jun 12

Medical Issues in Autism Spectrum Disorders.Wednesday, June 12, 6 pm. Free. Dakin Conference Room with Ann Neumeyer, MD, Child Neurologist, Medical Director of the Lurie Center for Autism at Massachusetts General Hospital and MassGeneral Hospital for Children, Assistant Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School, and Peter Kenny, MD, Pediatrician, Northampton Area Pediatrics. In her lecture about autism spectrum disorders, Dr. Ann Neumeyer will discuss what autism is. She will explain that there are medical conditions that can affect children with autism, such as sleep disorders, seizures and gastrointestinal disease, and discuss some methods for detecting and understanding these conditions.

Jun 12

On Wednesday, June 12th, from 7:00-8:30 pm, Dr. Robert Davis, psychologist and director of the Brain Analysis & NeuroDevelopment (BAND) Centers in Florence and Amherst will be offering a free presentation at the Cup & Top in Florence on the use of Neurotherapy, a neuroscience-based approach to reducing or eliminating symptoms associated with attention, learning, behavior and mood disorders. Neurotherapy is a safe, effective, non-invasive and medication-free form of treatment and was recently ranked by the American Academy of Pediatrics as a ‘Level 1’ treatment for ADHD, (i.e., equal or greater in effectiveness to medication, behavior therapy and parent training). For more information, visit the BAND Center website at: www.bandcenterllc.com.

Jun 17

Little Bear Learn & Care is having a Preschool Open House on Monday, June 17th from 6-7:30pm. LBLC is located at 184 Northampton Street in Easthampton and all are welcome. Come visit their center and meet the teachers. Little Bear’s philosophy stresses that the preschool years are vital in developing skills needed to be successful later in life. The curriculum provides meaningful experiences which encourage development in social/emotional, physical and cognitive areas. The children’s interests lead the teachers in designing activities which actively involve them in the learning process. Limited slots are available for our summer and fall programs. Contact info: www.littlebearlearn.com/ maurybear@gmail.com You can also find them on Facebook!

Jun 24 – Aug 16

The Bement School offers a wide variety of summer programs for students from 15 months to 15 years. Located on a beautiful campus in historic Deerfield, Bement’s programs combine the summer fun of a traditional day camp with field trips and enrichment programs. The Preschool Program provides a safe, nurturing camp experience for the youngest campers. Adventures in Chinese is a full-day Chinese language and culture program. The Adventure Camp offers games, crafts, swimming, and field trips. The Junior Counselor Program gives teens experience working with children, developing valuable job skills, and enjoying summer fun. Summer programs run from June 24 to August 16. Call 413-774-7061 or visit bement.org/summer for more information.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your April vacation event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event, workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

7th annual Hilltown Spring Festival happens this Saturday, June 1st from 10am-5pm at the Cummington Fairgrounds. Get a taste of the Hilltowns at this family-friendly festival with live music on two stages, musical workshops, dancing around the Maypole, Morris Dancers, music petting zoo, kids-made craft bazaar, vendors, food and much more! (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, post your event on our “Suggest An Event” page. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

WEEKEND BEST BET

Saturday, June 1st – Hilltown Spring Festival: The Hilltown CDC’s Hilltown Spring Festival on June 1st at the Cummington Fairgrounds will be a combined music festival, food festival, children’s festival, craft festival, and alternative energy exposition! Music for children of all ages will be performed by Mister G, David Grover and Terry A La Berry. Other musical performers include percussionist Tony Vacca, acoustic string band Appalachian Still, singer-songwriter Heather Maloney, the Lonesome Brothers, Hot Day at the Zoo, the Walkin’ Blues Band, & Dan Hales and the Frost Heaves. There will be children’s activities all day long, music workshops for families, dancing around the Maypole, children selling hand-made crafts at the Kids-Made Crafts Bazaar, 8 foot tall puppets, Morris dancers, & much more. Cummington Fairgrounds. Cummington, MA (>$)

BULLETIN BOARD

May 31 – Jun 2

FREE Event: Experience the World of Art, Music, and Culture on the Amherst Common, May 31st (12-6), June 1st and 2nd (10-6) at the Cultural Survival Bazaar. A FREE Festival of Native Arts & Cultures from around the world. Shop handmade, fairly traded art, jewelry, clothing, crafts, decor, tribal rugs & more. Featuring guest artisans from Africa, Asia, and the Americas, music of Ecuador and Mali. Enjoy FREE music performances, craft-making demos and Tibetan cuisine. Proceeds support Native artisans, fair trade & Cultural Survival’s nonproﬁt work worldwide. For special features, artisan proﬁles, performance schedule, and other dates & locations visit their website at http://www.bazaar.cs.org Amherst Common on Boltwood Ave. Click Here for Preview

Children’s Book Festival: A Fairy Garden Celebration. On Saturday, June 8th, grab your wings and come celebrate the magical world of fairies and gnomes at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, MA from 10am-5pm! Join local authors and illustrators for a fun day of building fairy houses, creating apple head elfin puppets and learning how to draw a dragon. Plus storytimes and book signings! See the Galapagos Puppets perform, Badger Meets the Fairies. Be inspired by the world of fantasy, the magic of fairy tales, and the natural world during their annual Children’s Book Festival. Fairy and gnome inspired costumes are welcome! Visit www.carlemuseum.org for the day’s schedule or call 413-658-1126.

Jun 8 & Jun 15

Coming soon: Hilltown Idols! An adult & child karaoke competition/fundraiser for the Williamsburg Elementary School. Auditions are Sat., 6/8, with the Final Performance on Sat., 6/15 at 7pm at the Williamsburg Grange in Williamsburg. The competition is open to children & adults from near and far! There are four competition groups: Grades 3-5, 6-8, 9-12, & Adults. Prizes will be awarded to winners. Entry fee for contestants in Grades 3-12 is $5.00 & $25.00 for adults. Register by 6/1! Tickets for audience members on 6/8 are $2/individual or $5/family for the day. Tickets for the Final Performance on 6/15 are $5(Ages 3-18), $10(Adults), or $20 per family. See https://sites.google.com/site/hilltownidols for details.

Jun 12

Medical Issues in Autism Spectrum Disorders.Wednesday, June 12, 6 pm. Free. Dakin Conference Room with Ann Neumeyer, MD, Child Neurologist, Medical Director of the Lurie Center for Autism at Massachusetts General Hospital and MassGeneral Hospital for Children, Assistant Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School, and Peter Kenny, MD, Pediatrician, Northampton Area Pediatrics. In her lecture about autism spectrum disorders, Dr. Ann Neumeyer will discuss what autism is. She will explain that there are medical conditions that can affect children with autism, such as sleep disorders, seizures and gastrointestinal disease, and discuss some methods for detecting and understanding these conditions.

Jun 12

On Wednesday, June 12th, from 7:00-8:30 pm, Dr. Robert Davis, psychologist and director of the Brain Analysis & NeuroDevelopment (BAND) Centers in Florence and Amherst will be offering a free presentation at the Cup & Top in Florence on the use of Neurotherapy, a neuroscience-based approach to reducing or eliminating symptoms associated with attention, learning, behavior and mood disorders. Neurotherapy is a safe, effective, non-invasive and medication-free form of treatment and was recently ranked by the American Academy of Pediatrics as a ‘Level 1’ treatment for ADHD, (i.e., equal or greater in effectiveness to medication, behavior therapy and parent training). For more information, visit the BAND Center website at: www.bandcenterllc.com.

Jun 24 – Aug 16

The Bement School offers a wide variety of summer programs for students from 15 months to 15 years. Located on a beautiful campus in historic Deerfield, Bement’s programs combine the summer fun of a traditional day camp with field trips and enrichment programs. The Preschool Program provides a safe, nurturing camp experience for the youngest campers. Adventures in Chinese is a full-day Chinese language and culture program. The Adventure Camp offers games, crafts, swimming, and field trips. The Junior Counselor Program gives teens experience working with children, developing valuable job skills, and enjoying summer fun. Summer programs run from June 24 to August 16. Call 413-774-7061 or visit bement.org/summer for more information.

Cooley Dickinson Childbirth Center: Voted “Best” Again in the Valley Advocate’s Readers Poll. For Granby residents Alyssa and Philip LaFlamme, Cooley Dickinson’s Childbirth Center was the comfortable choice. “From the moment I called to say I was on my way, I felt reassured and well taken care of,” said Alyssa, who praises labor and delivery nurse Terri Jay who “helped keep me calm when I had a few moments of panic.” Alyssa consistently received personalized care. “My friends have gone other places and they say they feel like a number at other hospitals.” The LaFlammes are not alone in their choice. For the third consecutive year, families have voted the Childbirth Center the Best Birthing Center in the Valley Advocate’s Readers’ Poll.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your April vacation event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event, workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, post your event on our “Suggest An Event” page. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

Sunday, May 26th from 10am-4pm – TRANSPORTATION/HISTORY: Chesterwood, a National Trust Historic Site, host their Vintage Motorcar Festival. Families can get a glimpse into history by viewing vintage vehicles on display. Kids can join in a car scavenger hunt and put their STEM skills to practice in LEGO car racing. Youth ages 15yo+ can also participate as judges of displayed vehicles. There will be live music, local foods and a nice afternoon at this national treasure! 413-298-3579. 4 Williamsville Road. Stockbridge, MA ($)

BULLETIN BOARD

May 31 – Jun 2

FREE Event: Experience the World of Art, Music, and Culture on the Amherst Common, May 31st (12-6), June 1st and 2nd (10-6) at the Cultural Survival Bazaar. A FREE Festival of Native Arts & Cultures from around the world. Shop handmade, fairly traded art, jewelry, clothing, crafts, decor, tribal rugs & more. Featuring guest artisans from Africa, Asia, and the Americas, music of Ecuador and Mali. Enjoy FREE music performances, craft-making demos and Tibetan cuisine. Proceeds support Native artisans, fair trade & Cultural Survival’s nonproﬁt work worldwide. For special features, artisan proﬁles, performance schedule, and other dates & locations visit their website at http://www.bazaar.cs.org Amherst Common on Boltwood Ave. Click Here for Preview

Jun 8 & Jun 15

Coming soon: Hilltown Idols! An adult & child karaoke competition/fundraiser for the Williamsburg Elementary School. Auditions are Sat., 6/8, with the Final Performance on Sat., 6/15 at 7pm at the Williamsburg Grange in Williamsburg. The competition is open to children & adults from near and far! There are four competition groups: Grades 3-5, 6-8, 9-12, & Adults. Prizes will be awarded to winners. Entry fee for contestants in Grades 3-12 is $5.00 & $25.00 for adults. Register by 6/1! Tickets for audience members on 6/8 are $2/individual or $5/family for the day. Tickets for the Final Performance on 6/15 are $5(Ages 3-18), $10(Adults), or $20 per family. See https://sites.google.com/site/hilltownidols for details.

Jun 24 – Aug 16

The Bement School offers a wide variety of summer programs for students from 15 months to 15 years. Located on a beautiful campus in historic Deerfield, Bement’s programs combine the summer fun of a traditional day camp with field trips and enrichment programs. The Preschool Program provides a safe, nurturing camp experience for the youngest campers. Adventures in Chinese is a full-day Chinese language and culture program. The Adventure Camp offers games, crafts, swimming, and field trips. The Junior Counselor Program gives teens experience working with children, developing valuable job skills, and enjoying summer fun. Summer programs run from June 24 to August 16. Call 413-774-7061 or visit bement.org/summer for more information.

Cooley Dickinson Childbirth Center: Voted “Best” Again in the Valley Advocate’s Readers Poll. For Granby residents Alyssa and Philip LaFlamme, Cooley Dickinson’s Childbirth Center was the comfortable choice. “From the moment I called to say I was on my way, I felt reassured and well taken care of,” said Alyssa, who praises labor and delivery nurse Terri Jay who “helped keep me calm when I had a few moments of panic.” Alyssa consistently received personalized care. “My friends have gone other places and they say they feel like a number at other hospitals.” The LaFlammes are not alone in their choice. For the third consecutive year, families have voted the Childbirth Center the Best Birthing Center in the Valley Advocate’s Readers’ Poll.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your April vacation event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event, workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!

Host Families Needed for Spanish Teens. Expand your family’s horizons this summer by welcoming a student from Spain into your home through the STEP-to-U.S.A. program. These boys and girls, who range in age from 14 to 17, arrive Wednesday, June 26, for a 3 ½ week home stay. They are eager to be part of your family and to practice their English. You and your children can also practice your Spanish and make a lifelong friend from another country. Host siblings are welcome to join the students in a variety of weekly activities, including day trips to Boston and Six Flags. Apply early to select just the right student for your family. To learn more, contact Ann Newsmith at 802-257-4710, exchangevt@gmail.com and visit www.step-to-usa.com.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS: June 1st & 2nd

Saturday, June 1st – Hilltown Spring Festival: The Hilltown CDC’s Hilltown Spring Festival on June 1st at the Cummington Fairgrounds will be a combined music festival, food festival, children’s festival, craft festival, and alternative energy exposition! Music for children of all ages will be performed by Mister G, David Grover and Terry A La Berry. Other musical performers include percussionist Tony Vacca, acoustic string band Appalachian Still, singer-songwriter Heather Maloney, the Lonesome Brothers, Hot Day at the Zoo, the Walkin’ Blues Band, & Dan Hales and the Frost Heaves. There will be children’s activities all day long, music workshops for families, dancing around the Maypole, children selling hand-made crafts at the Kids-Made Crafts Bazaar, 8 foot tall puppets, Morris dancers, & much more. Cummington Fairgrounds. Cummington, MA (>$)

Sunday, June 2nd – WGBY Asparagus Festival: WGBY celebrates all All Things Local at Seven Sisters Market Bistro and Long Hollow Bison Farm at their Asparagus Festival. The kids can meet baby bison, enjoy asparagus-themed activities, and entertainment from Paintbox Theater. There will be live music and an old fashioned outdoor luncheon too. Local brews for the adults in the late afternoon. Route 9. Hadley, MA (FREE)

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

Mark your calendars! The Hilltown CDC’s Hilltown Spring Festival is just two weeks away on Saturday, June 1st at the Cummington Fairgrounds! (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, post your event on our “Suggest An Event” page. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

Hilltown Spring Festival: The Hilltown CDC’s Hilltown Spring Festival on June 1st at the Cummington Fairgrounds will be a combined music festival, food festival, children’s festival, craft festival, and alternative energy exposition! Music for children of all ages will be performed by Mister G, David Grover and Terry A La Berry. Other musical performers include percussionist Tony Vacca, acoustic string band Appalachian Still, singer-songwriter Heather Maloney, the Lonesome Brothers, Hot Day at the Zoo, the Walkin’ Blues Band, & Dan Hales and the Frost Heaves. There will be children’s activities all day long, music workshops for families, dancing around the Maypole, children selling hand-made crafts at the Kids-Made Crafts Bazaar, 8 foot tall puppets, Morris dancers, & much more.

Talking to Your Kids About Sex Series Hilltown Families and Cup and Top Café are presenting a series of free talks for parents with Brooke Norton, Certified Sex Educator. Continuing with this series, the third talk, “Puberty for Parents,” will focus on the physical changes, social impacts and emotional aspects of puberty. Brooke will also touch upon sexual orientation and coming out, and what parents can teach their kids about consent. “Puberty for Parents” will take place on Tuesday, May 21st after hours at Cup and Top Café from 6:30pm-8:30pm (1 North Main Street) in Florence, MA. For more information, please contact Brooke Norton at 413-684-8697 or email brookenorton712@gmail.com.

SUMMER CAMP

Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!

BULLETIN BOARD

May 17

ServiceNet and Prospect Meadow Farm invite the local community to a free family friendly community day and open house on the farm located at 103a Prospect St. in Hatfield, MA. The activities will take place on Friday, May 17 from 3:30pm-6:00pm. This event will feature guided farm tours, animal demonstrations, lawn games, 2 professional magic shows at 4pm and 5:30pm, live music, a free dessert bar, and food available from the local food truck the Bistro Bus. Prospect Meadow Farm is a nonprofit social enterprise that empowers disabled individuals to find meaningful activity through work in agriculture related fields. For more information visit www.facebook.com/prospectmeadowfarm or call Shawn Robinson at 413-887-9441.

May 17-19

Starlight’s Youth Theatre proudly presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr., the musical, May 17th at 7:00 pm, May 18th at 2:00 & 7:00 pm, May 19th at 2:00 pm at the Academy of Music, Northampton. Tickets are $12 students/seniors and $16 adults and may be purchased from the Academy of Music box office: in person, or by phone at 413-584-9032, extension 105, or online: www.academyofmusictheatre.tix.com. This year’s production will feature a double cast of over 100 children representing 30+ communities throughout the Pioneer Valley. There’s something for everyone in this Disney favorite: Princess Ariel and Prince Eric, the adorable Flounder, the comical duo of Sebastian the crab and Scuttle the sea gull, and other colorful sea creatures.

June 26

Host Families Needed for Spanish Teens. Expand your family’s horizons this summer by welcoming a student from Spain into your home through the STEP-to-U.S.A. program. These boys and girls, who range in age from 14 to 17, arrive Wednesday, June 26, for a 3 ½ week home stay. They are eager to be part of your family and to practice their English. You and your children can also practice your Spanish and make a lifelong friend from another country. Host siblings are welcome to join the students in a variety of weekly activities, including day trips to Boston and Six Flags. Apply early to select just the right student for your family. To learn more, contact Ann Newsmith at 802-257-4710, exchangevt@gmail.com and visit www.step-to-usa.com.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your April vacation event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event, workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

Call for Kid Crafters for the Hilltown Spring Festival Kids-Made Craft Bazaar! The Hilltown CDC’s 7th Annual Hilltown Spring Festival is on Saturday, June 1st at the Cummington Fairgrounds. This will be the 4th year the Kids-Made Craft Bazaar happens at the festival. Children up to the age of 12 are invited to sell and barter their hand-made crafts and arts… and each year it’s a huge success! More information and application form here.

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

Thank you to all of our volunteers, facilitators & sponsors for making last Saturday’s Family Community Service Event a great success! At this one of a kind event, families came together to volunteer at seven different stations in a single morning, generating 450 hours of community service. Throughout the morning folks participated in hands-on projects for different non-profit and community organizations in our region that work on behalf of animal welfare, conservation and food security… including the building of nearly 50 bluebird houses we donated to the Franklin Land Trust! Read more about the event here and how you can get involved in the next one: Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, post your event on our “Suggest An Event” page. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families throughsponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

Hilltown Spring Festival: The Hilltown CDC’s Hilltown Spring Festival on June 1st at the Cummington Fairgrounds will be a combined music festival, food festival, children’s festival, craft festival, and alternative energy exposition! Music for children of all ages will be performed by Mister G, David Grover and Terry A La Berry. Other musical performers include percussionist Tony Vacca, acoustic string band Appalachian Still, singer-songwriter Heather Maloney, the Lonesome Brothers, Hot Day at the Zoo, the Walkin’ Blues Band, & Dan Hales and the Frost Heaves. There will be children’s activities all day long, music workshops for families, dancing around the Maypole, children selling hand-made crafts at the Kids-Made Crafts Bazaar, 8 foot tall puppets, Morris dancers, & much more.

Talking to Your Kids About Sex Series Hilltown Families and Cup and Top Café are presenting a series of free talks for parents with Brooke Norton, Certified Sex Educator. Continuing with this series, the third talk, “Puberty for Parents,” will focus on the physical changes, social impacts and emotional aspects of puberty. Brooke will also touch upon sexual orientation and coming out, and what parents can teach their kids about consent. “Puberty for Parents” will take place on Tuesday, May 21st after hours at Cup and Top Café from 6:30pm-8:30pm (1 North Main Street) in Florence, MA. For more information, please contact Brooke Norton at 413-684-8697 or email brookenorton712@gmail.com.

SUMMER CAMP

Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!

BULLETIN BOARD

May 10

Just in time for Mother’s Day, Hilltown Families presents a free family Friday night event, Mother’s Day Mementos, at The Art Garden in Shelburne Falls on Friday, May 10th from 4-7pm. Come make handmade cards and gifts to give to the mothers in your life. Let them know they are appreciated while getting creative with your family! All materials included and everyone is invited to join in this community building event that honors the mother in your life. The Art Garden is located at 14 Depot Street, Suite 2 in Shelburne Falls, MA (in the same building as the Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum.).

May 17-19

Starlight’s Youth Theatre proudly presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr., the musical, May 17th at 7:00 pm, May 18th at 2:00 & 7:00 pm, May 19th at 2:00 pm at the Academy of Music, Northampton. Tickets are $12 students/seniors and $16 adults and may be purchased from the Academy of Music box office: in person, or by phone at 413-584-9032, extension 105, or online: www.academyofmusictheatre.tix.com. This year’s production will feature a double cast of over 100 children representing 30+ communities throughout the Pioneer Valley. There’s something for everyone in this Disney favorite: Princess Ariel and Prince Eric, the adorable Flounder, the comical duo of Sebastian the crab and Scuttle the sea gull, and other colorful sea creatures.

June 26

Host Families Needed for Spanish Teens. Expand your family’s horizons this summer by welcoming a student from Spain into your home through the STEP-to-U.S.A. program. These boys and girls, who range in age from 14 to 17, arrive Wednesday, June 26, for a 3 ½ week home stay. They are eager to be part of your family and to practice their English. You and your children can also practice your Spanish and make a lifelong friend from another country. Host siblings are welcome to join the students in a variety of weekly activities, including day trips to Boston and Six Flags. Apply early to select just the right student for your family. To learn more, contact Ann Newsmith at 802-257-4710, exchangevt@gmail.com and visit www.step-to-usa.com.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your April vacation event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event, workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

Please help the Southern Hilltown Domestic Violence Task Force by taking a five to ten minute survey on-line at @ www.surveymonkey.com/s/hilltowndvsurvey, and by sending this link to others in the Hilltowns. Survey respondents may be eligible to enter a raffle for $200 cash. The Task Force designed the survey to get a better understanding of how Hilltown residents view and respond to domestic abuse, and to find out if community members know where to get help. The Task Force will use survey results as the foundation for a community education and outreach campaign later this year. For more information about the survey or the Task Force, email southernhillsdvtaskforce@gmail.com.

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Welcome!

Welcome to Hilltown Families, an online grassroots communication network for families living throughout the four counties of Western Massachusetts. Hilltown Families believes in creating resilient and sustainable communities by developing and strengthening a sense of place in our children and citizens through community-based education and engagement. We work to accomplish this by highlighting the embedded learning that is found everywhere in our communities, making the information accessible to families, and giving parents/educators access to opportunities that support their children’s interests and education while encouraging community engagement.

Hilltown Families was founded in 2005 by Sienna Wildfield and is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

Established in 2005, Hilltown Families has been supporting community-based education through community engagement for over a decade! With your support, we can continue to connect community members of all ages with learning and value-based opportunities throughout the four counties of western Massachusetts! Make a tax-deductible donation to Hilltown Families today! - Hilltown Families is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

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“We try to go to at least one of the Hilltown Families recommended events each weekend to keep our son experiencing new, educational, and community oriented experiences. Hilltown Families supports my interests in education through community engagement by providing a network of families with similar interests in the same area…a sense of belonging to a group that supports my goals and interests.” – Yi-Lo Yu (Southampton, MA)

"Hilltown Families keeps us connected with all the amazing educational and cultural activities and resources that abound here in W. Mass and curates them in a way to let us know just what’s out there for the many varied interests of our young families and communities, while creating networks of support and growth." - Kara Kitchen (Plainfield, MA)

Posting a comment to Hilltown Famiies will automatically add you to the Hilltown Families mailing list to receive our weekly update. Email address are never rented or sold. To be removed from our mailing list, email info@hilltownfamilies.org to request to be removed.

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Information provided on Hilltown Families (HTF) is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Reasonable efforts are made to provide the most accurate information, but no guarantees of any kind can be made. Information can be changed without prior notice. Please check with 3rd parties to confirm all listings for date/time, cost, location and age appropriateness before attending. Opinions expressed on HTF are that of the writer and not necessarily that of HTF. In no event shall HTF be liable (directly or indirectly) for any losses or damages causes (or allegedly caused) in connection with HTF. All health and wellness related information is for entertainment purposes only and should not be used to substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. All provided links are provided as a courtesy and not as an endorsement. HTF is not responsible for the content of external websites.